Elastic films made from alpha-olefin/vinyl aromatic and/or aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene

ABSTRACT

The present invention pertains to elastic films having at least one layer comprising a substantially random interpolymer or a blend thereof. The interpolymer comprises polymer units derived from at least C 2-20  α-olefin and (i) at least one vinyl aromatic monomer, or (ii) at least one aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomer, or (iii) a combination of at least one aromatic vinyl monomer and at least one aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomer. The interpolymer may also comprise one or more ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomers other than those previously mentioned. The elastic films have a recovery in the cross direction of greater than or equal to about 80% and has a recovery in the machine direction of greater than or equal to about 60%.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Patent applicationSer. No. 09/317,390 filed May 24, 1999 which claims benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Number 60/088,974 filed Jun. 11, 1998, all ofwhich are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX

[0003] Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] This invention pertains to elastic films prepared from polymerswhich comprise at least one substantially random interpolymer comprisingpolymer units derived from one or more α-olefin monomers with specificamounts of one or more vinyl aromatic monomers and/or aliphatic orcycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomers, or blend compositionstherefrom with other polymers. Films prepared from such interpolymersexhibit a unique balance of properties including, good elasticity asmeasured by high strain recovery (≧80% Recovery in CD and ≧60% Recoveryin MD).

[0005] The invention covers films, sheets, and multi-layer laminates.The films according to the invention may be obtained also as co-extrudedand multi-layer films, such as one side sealable films, two sidessealable films, coated films, tinted films, cavitated films, untreatedfilms, one side treated films, two sides treated films, and metallizedplastic films. The inventive films can also be laminated to polyesterfilms, styrenic polymer films, polyethylene films, non-woven fabrics,fibers, foams, and conventional oriented polypropylene films, and othersto impart elastic properties to such multilayer composite structures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Materials with excellent stretchability and elasticity are neededto manufacture a variety of disposable and durable articles, such astapes, bandages, incontinence garments, disposable diapers, disposableand protective clothing and fabrics. Stretchability and elasticity aredesirable characteristics to effectuate a closely conforming fit to thebody of the wearer or to the frame of the item. It is also desirable tomaintain the conforming fit during repeated use, extensions andretractions. For incontinence articles, stretchability and elasticityare particularly desirable to insure comfort and provide securityagainst unwanted leaks. Elastic films may also be of value for foodwraps, meat wraps and household wraps where recovery is of value.

[0007] Disposable articles are typically prepared by the combination ofpolymer fibers, films, sheets and absorbent materials. Whereas thefibers are prepared by well known processes such as spunbonding, meltblown and continuous filament wounding, the film and sheet formingprocesses typically involve known extrusion and coextrusion processes,e.g., blown bubble extrusion, extrusion casting, profile extrusion,injection molding, extrusion coating and extrusion sheet. The resultantelastic film, coating or sheet may be subsequently cut or slit to shortlengths and/or narrow widths to prepare strips, tapes, bands, ribbons orthe like.

[0008] There are at least two ways elastic films are employed tomanufacture disposable and durable articles. Elastic films, strips andsheets are used as uncombined elastic components (panels or portions),or they are constructed as or into multilayer structures to provideelastic composite materials with enhanced elasticity and stretchability.In a diaper, for example, experimental and commercial uses include in oras side panels, waist bands, backsheets, leg bands, and even topsheetswhere the elastic material is rendered pervious or “breathable” by suchmethods as apperturing, slitting, or microperforating as suggested byLippert et al. in U.S. Pat. No. 4,861,652 (the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference).

[0009] An example of the use of elastic films to construct elasticcomposite materials is provided by Van Gompel et al. in U.S. Pat. Nos.4,940,464, 4,938,757 and 4,938,753 (the disclosures of all of which areincorporated herein by reference). Van Gompel et at. disclose disposableincontinence garments containing elastic gathering means and stretchableside panels. The gathering means and stretchable side panels are madefrom film of block or graft copolymers such as butadiene, isoprene,styrene, ethylene-methyl acrylate, ethylene-vinyl acetate,ethylene-ethyl acrylate or blends thereof

[0010] An example of use of elastic films to construct composites withthe particular benefit of enhanced stretchability is a stretchablefastening tape for a disposable diaper disclosed by Gesp in U.S. Pat.No. 5,057,097, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference.

[0011] There has been a persistent need for extrudable materialssuitable for producing films, strips, sheets and composites withexcellent stretchability and elasticity. Although there are a variety ofelastic films currently available, these known solutions requireblending or additive incorporation to meet desire levels of extrusionprocessability, stretchability or elasticity. Still other proposedsolutions such as the method disclosed by Butin in U.S. Pat. No.3,849,241, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference,require “controlled thermal and oxidative degradation” of the elasticmaterial to affect viscosity adjustments prior to extrusion. Moreover,prior art elastic films can involve elastomers such as styrene butadienecopolymers, polyether block amides, polyether esters and polyurethaneswhich typically necessitate blending with polyolefins for adequateextrusion processability.

[0012] Where polyolefins themselves have been previously employed aselastic films, other problems have arisen. For example,ethylene/α,β-unsaturated copolymers are known to possess improvedelasticity as a function of increased comonomer levels. Daponte in U.S.Pat. No. 4,803,117, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference, discloses ethylene vinyl ester copolymers where high vinylester levels are requisite to effectuate adequate elasticity fordisposable articles. However, these high vinyl ester levels invariablyrender the polymer susceptible to undue thermal degradation.

[0013] In the modern distribution and marketing of food products, amultitude of different packaging materials are used. One principalcategory of food packaging materials is plastic film. Many differentkinds of plastic film exist, both in composition and structure, and someare tailored to specific applications while others are more generic innature.

[0014] Currently, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film is the predominateplastic film used to wrap retail-cut red meat and similar products, e.g.fresh fish, poultry, vegetables, fruits, etc., due to its many desirableproperties and its low cost relative to other plastic films.Representative of these desirable properties are clarity, oxygentransmission, flexibility, toughness, heat sealability, elasticrecovery, and processability. However, most PVC films include aplasticizer to obtain the desired flexibility, and a growing concernexists as to the carcinogenic properties of the most commonly used PVCfilm plasticizer and the tendency of this plasticizer to migrate fromthe film to the food product. A growing concern also exists regardingthe use in food wrapping applications of any plastic film comprising oneor more chlorinated polymers. The concern includes the tendency forchlorinated polymers to yield corrosive acid when thermally degraded orincinerated, as well as concern regarding the general difficultyinvolved in recycling chlorinated polymers.

[0015] In the search for alternatives to PVC film, various monolayerolefin films, particularly polyethylene films, have been considered butnone have been found to be without at least one major flaw that hasblocked its utility. High density polyethylene (HDPE) is much tooinelastic to be useful as a commercial wrap, while the various lowdensity polyethylenes, e.g. low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear lowdensity polyethylene (LLDPE), ultra low density polyethylene (ULDPE),etc., do not possess sufficient elastic recovery, and the film retainsimpressions or dents caused by handling of the packaged goods bypotential purchasers while inspecting its contents.

[0016] Various multilayer films have also been considered (e.g. thosetaught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,112,674 and in EPO 0 243 965, EPO 0 333 508,and EPO 0 404 969), and significant among these are films made byco-extrusion of polyethylene with an ethylene/α,β-ethylenicallyunsaturated carbonyl copolymer, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) orethylene acrylic acid (EAA). These ethylene/α,β-ethylenicallyunsaturated carbonyl copolymers are considered difficult to fabricate,have a tendency to impart an offensive taste and/or odor to the foodproduct, and are known to interfere with anti-fogging agents.

[0017] Obijeski et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,472,775 disclose elasticfilms, particularly films, strips, coatings, ribbons and sheets madefrom at least one substantially linear ethylene polymer are disclosedwhich can be fabricated on conventional polyolefin extrusion equipment.They can be used to produce elastic composite structures that arestretchable and have recycle compatibility between elastic andnon-elastic components.

[0018] Chum et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,427,807 disclose food packagingcomprising a film having at least one film layer comprising asubstantially linear ethylene polymer, preferably a polymer comprisingethylene and at least one α-olefin comonomer, e.g. 1-octene. The filmstructures can be either mono- or multi-layered, oriented ornon-oriented, oxygen permeable or impermeable, filled with certaininorganic fillers, and prepared by any conventional technique.

[0019] Bradfute et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,658,625 disclose film andsheet materials, and articles made therefrom, such as bags, pouches,trays, etc., comprising one or more layers of a thermoplastic,homogeneous alpha-olefin/vinyl aromatic copolymer, preferably anethylene/styrene copolymer but does not indicate the optimum amounts ofethylene/vinyl and α-olefin monomers in the ethylene/vinyl aromaticinterpolymer blend component.

[0020] Thus there remains a requirement for elastic film which, as wellas exhibiting the required degree of elasticity, also; a) exhibits anexcellent balance in other mechanical properties such as tensilestrength and elongation as well as softness and flexibility indicated bylow modulus values; b) has good processability without the requirementof blending or additive incorporation such as processing aids; c) is notsusceptible to undue thermal degradation; d) does not require aplasticizer to improve softness; e) does not contain corrosive chlorideresidues; f) does not impart an offensive taste and/or odor tofoodstuffs; and; g) does not interfere with known antifogging agents.

[0021] We have now found that elastic films can be prepared having thedesired elasticity, processability and mechanical properties, if suchfilms comprise at least one substantially random interpolymer and if theamount of the vinyl aromatic and/or aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl orvinylidene monomer incorporated into the substantially randominterpolymer is within a specific range which results in said elasticfilm having a recovery in the cross direction of greater than or equalto about 80% and a recovery in the machine direction of greater than orequal to about 60

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present invention pertains to elastic films having at leastone layer comprising;

[0023] (A) at least one substantially random interpolymer, whichcomprises;

[0024] (1) polymer units derived from;

[0025] (i) at least one vinyl aromatic monomer, or

[0026] (ii) at least one aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidenemonomer, or

[0027] (iii) a combination of at least one aromatic vinyl monomer and atleast one aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomer, andpolymer units derived from at least one C₂₋₂₀ α-olefin; and optionally

[0028] (2) polymer units derived from one or more ethylenicallyunsaturated polymerizable monomers other than those of (1) and (2); or

[0029] (B) a blend of Component A with at least one polymer other thanthat of Component A; and

[0030] wherein said elastic film has a recovery in the cross directionof greater than or equal to about 80% and has a recovery in the machinedirection of greater than or equal to about 60%.

[0031] The present invention also pertains to a multilayer filmcomprising at least two layers wherein at least one of said layers has arecovery in the cross direction of greater than or equal to about 80%and has a recovery in the machine direction of greater than or equal toabout 60% and comprises a polymer composition which comprises;

[0032] (A) at least one substantially random interpolymer, whichcomprises;

[0033] (1) polymer units derived from;

[0034] (i) at least one vinyl aromatic monomer, or

[0035] (ii) at least one aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidenemonomer, or

[0036] (iii) a combination of at least one aromatic vinyl monomer and atleast one aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomer, and

[0037] (2) polymer units derived from at least one C₂₋₂₀ α-olefin; andoptionally,

[0038] (3) polymer units derived from one or more ethylenicallyunsaturated polymerizable monomers other than those of (1) and (2); or

[0039] (B) at least one polymer other than that of Component A.

[0040] The elastic films can be used in applications including, but notlimited to, dispoasable diapers, fabrics, medical bandages, tapes, foodwrap films, household wraps, stretch packaging films, labels, bands andthe like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Not applicable.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0042] Definitions

[0043] All references herein to elements or metals belonging to acertain Group refer to the Periodic Table of the Elements published andcopyrighted by CRC Press, Inc., 1989. Also any reference to the Group orGroups shall be to the Group or Groups as reflected in this PeriodicTable of the Elements using the IUPAC system for numbering groups.

[0044] Any numerical values recited herein include all values from thelower value to the upper value in increments of one unit provided thatthere is a separation of at least 2 units between any lower value andany higher value. As an example, if it is stated that the amount of acomponent or a value of a process variable such as, for example,temperature, pressure, time and the like is, for example, from 1 to 90,preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intendedthat values such as 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc. areexpressly enumerated in this specification. For values which are lessthan one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1 asappropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intendedand all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowestvalue and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to beexpressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

[0045] The term “hydrocarbyl” as employed herein means any aliphatic,cycloaliphatic, aromatic, aryl substituted aliphatic, aryl substitutedcycloaliphatic, aliphatic substituted aromatic, or aliphatic substitutedcycloaliphatic groups.

[0046] The term “hydrocarbyloxy” means a hydrocarbyl group having anoxygen linkage between it and the carbon atom to which it is attached.

[0047] The term “copolymer” as employed herein means a polymer whereinat least two different monomers are polymerized to form the copolymer.

[0048] The term “interpolymer” is used herein to indicate a polymerwherein at least two different monomers are polymerized to make theinterpolymer. This includes copolymers, terpolymers, etc.

[0049] As used herein, the phrase “outer layer” refers to any film layerof a multilayer film having only one of its principal surfaces directlyadhered to another layer of the film.

[0050] As used herein, the phrase “inside layer” refers to the outerlayer, of a multilayer film packaging a product, which is closest to theproduct, relative to the other layers of the multilayer film.

[0051] As used herein, the phrase “outside layer” refers to the outerlayer, of a multilayer film packaging a product, which is furthest fromthe product relative to the other layers of the multilayer film.

[0052] As used herein, the term “extrusion” is used with reference tothe process of forming continuous shapes by forcing a molten plasticmaterial through a die, followed by cooling or chemical hardening.Immediately prior to extrusion through the die, the relativelyhigh-viscosity polymeric material is fed into a rotating screw ofvariable pitch, which forces it through the die.

[0053] As used herein, the term “coextrusion” refers to the process ofextruding two or more materials through a single die with two or moreorifices arranged so that the extrudates merge and weld together into alaminar structure before chilling, i.e., quenching. Coextrusion can beemployed in film blowing, free film extrusion, and extrusion coatingprocesses.

[0054] As used herein, the phrase “machine direction”, hereinabbreviated “MD”, refers to a direction “along the length” of the film,i.e., in the direction of the film as the film is formed duringextrusion and/or coating.

[0055] As used herein, the phrase “cross direction”, herein abbreviated“CD”, refers to a direction across the film, perpendicular to themachine or longitudinal direction.

[0056] Elasticity can be described by the “permanent set” of the film.Permanent set is the converse of elasticity. A film is stretched to acertain point and subsequently released to the original position, andthen stretched again. The point at which the elastic material begins toexert a force (i.e. show a non-zero force reading) is designated as thepercent permanent set.

[0057] The term “stretchable” is used herein in reference any materialwhich, upon application of a biasing force, elongates at least about 60percent (i.e., to a stretched, biased length which is at least about 160percent of its relaxed unbiased length), and which, will recover atleast 55 percent of its elongation upon release of the stretching,elongating force.

[0058] As used herein, the terms “recover” and “recovery” refer to acontraction of a stretched material upon termination of a biasing forcefollowing stretching of the material by application of the biasingforce. Thus a sample is pulled on a tensile testing machine with a 50 mmgauge length setting at 250 mm/min to 100% of its original length. Thesample is then held at that elongation for 30 seconds. The sample isthen unloaded at the same speed to the original 50 mm gauge length.After a 60 second hold, sample is pulled again to determine the point atwhich it exerts a force again. The % recovery: (average of fivemeasurements) is obtained initially measuring the % elongation orpercent set. This is obtained by measuring the distance to where thesecond load cycle begins to show a non-zero force reading. This distanceis the percent set or % elongation where;

[0059] % elongation=(elongated length-original length)/originallength×100/1.

[0060] The % recovery is then calculated as;

[0061] % recovery=(100−% elongation).

[0062] The term “good elasticity” as used herein is used to describefilms having ≧80% recovery in the CD and ≧60% recovery in the MD.

[0063] As used herein, the term “nonelastic” refers to any materialwhich does not fall within the definition of “elastic” or “stretchable”above.

[0064] As used herein, the term “less-elastic” includes “nonelastic” andany material referenced apposite an “elastic material”.

[0065] The term “elastic material” as used herein refers to the films,strips, coatings, tapes, webs, ribbons, bands, sheets and the like aswell as the “elastic composite materials” disclosed herein unlessspecifically distinguished as pertaining to the prior art.

[0066] The term “article” as used herein refers to fabricated compositeitems comprising elastic films disclosed herein. Articles includedisposable infant care and adult incontinence care items such asincontinence garments, training pants and diapers. The term alsoincludes packages or films used for packaging, or wrapping goods such asmeat, vegetables and commercial goods. Also included are combinations oftrays, bowls or other containers covered sealed or protected by suchelastic films.

[0067] The term “structure” as used herein is defined as a polymercomposition which has undergone a molding, film-, fiber-, orfoam-forming process.

[0068] The term “fabricated article” as used herein is defined as apolymer composition in the form of a finished article which may beformed directly from said polymer composition or be formed from anintermediate comprising one of the films described herein.

[0069] The term “film ” as used herein is defined as having a thicknessless than or equal to about 12 mils.

[0070] The term “sheet ” as used herein is defined as having a thicknessgreater than about 12 mils.

[0071] The term “substantially random” (in the substantially randominterpolymer comprising polymer units derived from one or more α-olefinmonomers with one or more vinyl aromatic monomers and/or aliphatic orcycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomers) as used herein means thatthe distribution of the monomers of said interpolymer can be describedby the Bernoulli statistical model or by a first or second orderMarkovian statistical model, as described by J. C. Randall in POLYMERSEQUENCE DETERMINATION Carbon-13 NMR Method, Academic Press New York,1977, pp. 71-78. Preferably, substantially random interpolymers do notcontain more than 15 percent of the total amount of vinyl aromaticmonomer in blocks of vinyl aromatic monomer of more than 3 units. Morepreferably, the interpolymer is not characterized by a high degree ofeither isotacticity or syndiotacticity. This means that in the carbon⁻¹³NMR spectrum of the substantially random interpolymer the peak areascorresponding to the main chain methylene and methine carbonsrepresenting either meso diad sequences or racemic diad sequences shouldnot exceed 75 percent of the total peak area of the main chain methyleneand methine carbons.

[0072] The present invention provides elastic films prepared from atleast one substantially random interpolymer comprising polymer unitsderived from one or more α-olefin monomers with specific amounts of oneor more vinyl aromatic monomers and/or aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinylor vinylidene monomers. The present invention also provides elasticfilms prepared from blends of the substantially randomα-olefin/vinylidene interpolymers with one or more other polymercomponents which span a wide range of compositions. The other polymercomponent of the blend can include, but is not limited to, one or moreof an engineering thermoplastic, an α-olefin homopolymer orinterpolymer, a thermoplastic olefin, a styrenic block copolymer, astyrenic homo- or copolymer, an elastomer, a thermoset polymer, or avinyl halide polymer.

[0073] The Substantially Random Interpolymers

[0074] The interpolymers used to prepare the elastic films of thepresent invention include interpolymers prepared by polymerizing one ormore α-olefins with one or more vinyl aromatic monomers and/or one ormore aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomers, andoptionally other polymerizable monomers.

[0075] Suitable α-olefins include for example, α-olefins containing from2 to about 20, preferably from 2 to about 12, more preferably from 2 toabout 8 carbon atoms. Particularly suitable are ethylene, propylene,butene-1, 4-methyl-1-pentene, hexene-1 or octene-1 or ethylene incombination with one or more of propylene, butene-1, 4-methyl-1-pentene,hexene-1 or octene-1. These α-olefins do not contain an aromatic moiety.

[0076] Other optional polymerizable ethylenically unsaturated monomer(s)include strained ring olefins such as norbornene and C₁₋₁₀ alkyl orC₆₋₁₀ aryl substituted norbornenes, with an exemplary interpolymer beingethylene/styrene/norbomene.

[0077] Suitable vinyl aromatic monomers which can be employed to preparethe interpolymers include, for example, those represented by thefollowing formula:

[0078] wherein R¹ is selected from the group of radicals consisting ofhydrogen and alkyl radicals containing from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms,preferably hydrogen or methyl; each R² is independently selected fromthe group of radicals consisting of hydrogen and alkyl radicalscontaining from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms, preferably hydrogen ormethyl; Ar is a phenyl group or a phenyl group substituted with from 1to 5 subustituents selected from the group consisting of halo,C₁₋₄-alkyl, and C₁₋₄-haloalkyl; and n has a value from zero to about 4,preferably from zero to 2, most preferably zero. Exemplary monovinylaromatic monomers include styrene, vinyl toluene, α-methylstyrene,t-butyl styrene, chlorostyrene, including all isomers of thesecompounds, and the like. Particularly suitable such monomers includestyrene and lower alkyl- or halogen-substituted derivatives thereof.Preferred monomers include styrene, α-methyl styrene, the loweralkyl-(C₁-C₄) or phenyl-ring substituted derivatives of styrene, such asfor example, ortho-, meta-, and para-methylstyrene, the ring halogenatedstyrenes, para-vinyl toluene or mixtures thereof, and the like. A morepreferred aromatic monovinyl monomer is styrene.

[0079] By the term “aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidenecompounds”, it is meant addition polymerizable vinyl or vinylidenemonomers corresponding to the formula:

[0080] wherein A¹ is a sterically bulky, aliphatic or cycloaliphaticsubstituent of up to 20 carbons, R¹ is selected from the group ofradicals consisting of hydrogen and alkyl radicals containing from 1 toabout 4 carbon atoms, preferably hydrogen or methyl; each R² isindependently selected from the group of radicals consisting of hydrogenand alkyl radicals containing from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms, preferablyhydrogen or methyl; or alternatively R¹ and A¹ together form a ringsystem. Preferred aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidenecompounds are monomers in which one of the carbon atoms bearingethylenic unsaturation is tertiary or quaternary substituted. Examplesof such substituents include cyclic aliphatic groups such as cyclohexyl,cyclohexenyl, cyclooctenyl, or ring alkyl or aryl substitutedderivatives thereof, tert-butyl, norbornyl, and the like. Most preferredaliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene compounds are thevarious isomeric vinyl-ring substituted derivatives of cyclohexene andsubstituted cyclohexenes, and 5-ethylidene-2-norbomene. Especiallysuitable are 1-, 3-, and 4-vinylcyclohexene.

[0081] The substantially random interpolymers may be modified by typicalgrafting, hydrogenation, functionalizing, or other reactions well knownto those skilled in the art. The polymers may be readily sulfonated orchlorinated to provide functionalized derivatives according toestablished techniques.

[0082] Although not a requirement for elastic behavior, thesubstantially random interpolymers or the elastic films comprising atleast one layer of said substantially random interpolymers, may also bemodified by various chain extending or cross-linking processesincluding, but not limited to peroxide-, silane-, sulfur-, rad-3iation-,or a zide-based cure systems. A full description of the variouscross-linking technologies is described in copending U.S. patentapplication Ser. Nos. 08/921,641 and 08/921,642 both filed on Aug. 27,1997, the entire contents of both of which are herein incorporated byreference.

[0083] Dual cure systems, which use a combination of heat, moisturecure, and radiation steps, may be effectively employed. Dual curesystems are disclosed and claimed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.536,022, filed on Sep. 29, 1995, in the names of K. L. Walton and S. V.Karande, incorporated herein by reference. For instance, it may bedesirable to employ peroxide crosslinking agents in conjunction withsilane crosslinking agents, peroxide crosslinking agents in conjunctionwith radiation, sulfur-containing crosslinking agents in conjunctionwith silane crosslinking agents, etc.

[0084] The substantially random interpolymers may also be modified byvarious other cross-linking processes including, but not limited to theincorporation of a diene component as a termonomer in its preparationand subsequent cross linking by the aforementioned methods and furthermethods including vulcanization via the vinyl group using sulfur forexample as the cross linking agent.

[0085] The substantially random interpolymers can be prepared asdescribed in EP-A-0,416,815 by James C. Stevens et al. and U.S. Pat. No.5,703,187 by Francis J. Timmers, both of which are incorporated hereinby reference in their entirety. Such a method of preparation of thesubstantially random interpolymers includes polymerizing a mixture ofpolymerizable monomers in the presence of one or more metallocene orconstrained geometry catalysts in combination with various cocatalysts.Preferred operating conditions for such polymerization reactions arepressures from atmospheric up to 3000 atmospheres and temperatures from−30° C. to 200° C. Polymerizations and unreacted monomer removal attemperatures above the autopolymerization temperature of the respectivemonomers may result in formation of some amounts of homopolymerpolymerization products resulting from free radical polymerization.

[0086] Examples of suitable catalysts and methods for preparing thesubstantially random interpolymers are disclosed in U.S. applicationSer. No. 702,475, filed May 20, 1991 (EP-A-514,828); as well as U.S.Pat. Nos.: 5,055,438; 5,057,475; 5,096,867; 5,064,802; 5,132,380;5,189,192; 5,321,106; 5,347,024; 5,350,723; 5,374,696; 5,399,635;5,470,993; 5,703,187; and 5,721,185 all of which patents andapplications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0087] The substantially random α-olefin/vinyl aromatic interpolymerscan also be prepared by the methods described in JP 07/278230 employingcompounds shown by the general formula

[0088] where Cp¹ and Cp² are cyclopentadienyl groups, indenyl groups,fluorenyl groups, or substituents of these, independently of each other;R¹ and R² are hydrogen atoms, halogen atoms, hydrocarbon groups withcarbon numbers of 1-12, alkoxyl groups, or aryloxyl groups,independently of each other; M is a group IV metal, preferably Zr or Hf,most preferably Zr; and R³ is an alkylene group or silanediyl group usedto cross-link Cp¹ and Cp²).

[0089] The substantially random α-olefin/vinyl aromatic interpolymerscan also be prepared by the methods described by John G. Bradfute et al.(W. R. Grace & Co.) in WO 95/32095; by R. B. Pannell (Exxon ChemicalPatents, Inc.) in WO 94/00500; and in Plastics Technology, p. 25(September 1992), all of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

[0090] Also suitable are the substantially random interpolymers whichcomprise at least one α-olefin/vinyl aromatic/vinyl aromatic/α-olefintetrad disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 08/708,809 filed Sep. 4,1996 and WO 98/09999 both by Francis J. Timmers et al. Theseinterpolymers contain additional signals in their carbon-13 NMR spectrawith intensities greater than three times the peak to peak noise. Thesesignals appear in the chemical shift range 43.70-44.25 ppm and 38.0-38.5ppm. Specifically, major peaks are observed at 44.1, 43.9, and 38.2 ppm.A proton test NMR experiment indicates that the signals in the chemicalshift region 43.70-44.25 ppm are methine carbons and the signals in theregion 38.0-38.5 ppm are methylene carbons.

[0091] It is believed that these new signals are due to sequencesinvolving two head-to-tail vinyl aromatic monomer insertions precededand followed by at least one α-olefin insertion, e.g. anethylene/styrene/styrene/ethylene tetrad wherein the styrene monomerinsertions of said tetrads occur exclusively in a 1,2 (head to tail)manner. It is understood by one skilled in the art that for such tetradsinvolving a vinyl aromatic monomer other than styrene and an α-olefinother than ethylene that the ethylene/vinyl aromatic monomer/vinylaromatic monomer/ethylene tetrad will give rise to similar carbon-13 NMRpeaks but with slightly different chemical shifts.

[0092] These interpolymers can be prepared by conducting thepolymerization at temperatures of from about −30° C. to about 250° C. inthe presence of such catalysts as those represented by the formula

[0093] wherein: each Cp is independently, each occurrence, a substitutedcyclopentadienyl group π-bound to M; E is C or Si; M is a group IVmetal, preferably Zr or Hf, most preferably Zr; each R is independently,each occurrence, H, hydrocarbyl, silahydrocarbyl, or hydrocarbylsilyl,containing up to about 30 preferably from 1 to about 20 more preferablyfrom 1 to about 10 carbon or silicon atoms; each R′ is independently,each occurrence, H, halo, hydrocarbyl, hyrocarbyloxy, silahydrocarbyl,hydrocarbylsilyl containing up to about 30 preferably from 1 to about 20more preferably from 1 to about 10 carbon or silicon atoms or two R′groups together can be a C₁₋₁₀ hydrocarbyl substituted 1,3-butadiene; mis 1 or 2; and optionally, but preferably in the presence of anactivating cocatalyst. Particularly, suitable substitutedcyclopentadienyl groups include those illustrated by the formula:

[0094] wherein each R is independently, each occurrence, H, hydrocarbyl,silahydrocarbyl, or hydrocarbylsilyl, containing up to about 30preferably from 1 to about 20 more preferably from 1 to about 10 carbonor silicon atoms or two R groups together form a divalent derivative ofsuch group. Preferably, R independently each occurrence is (includingwhere appropriate all isomers) hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl,pentyl, hexyl, benzyl, phenyl or silyl or (where appropriate) two such Rgroups are linked together forming a fused ring system such as indenyl,fluorenyl, tetrahydroindenyl, tetrahydrofluorenyl, oroctahydrofluorenyl.

[0095] Particularly preferred catalysts include, for example,racemic-(dimethylsilanediyl)-bis-(2-methyl-4-phenylindenyl))zirconiumdichloride,racemic-(dimethylsilanediyl)-bis-(2-methyl-4-phenylindenyl))zirconium1,4-diphenyl-1,3-butadiene,racemic-(dimethylsilanediyl)-bis-(2-methyl-4-phenylindenyl))zirconiumdi-C1-4 alkyl,racemic-(dimethylsilanediyl)-bis-(2-methyl-4-phenylindenyl)) zirconiumdi-C1-4 alkoxide, or any combination thereof and the like.

[0096] It is also possible to use the following titanium-basedconstrained geometry catalysts,[N-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-1-[(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-s-indacen-1-yl]silanaminato(2-)-N]titanium dimethyl; (1-indenyl)(tert-butylamido)dimethyl- silane titanium dimethyl;((3-tert-butyl)(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1-indenyl)(tert-butyl amido) dimethylsilanetitanium dimethyl; and((3-iso-propyl)(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1-indenyl)(tert-butyl amido)dimethylsilanetitanium dimethyl, or any combination thereof and the like.

[0097] Further preparative methods for the interpolymers used in thepresent invention have been described in the literature. Longo andGrassi (Makromol. Chem., Volume 191, pages 2387 to 2396 [1990]) andD'Anniello et al. (Journal of Applied Polymer Science, Volume 58, pages1701-1706 [1995]) reported the use of a catalytic system based onmethylalumoxane (MAO) and cyclopentadienyltitanium trichloride (CpTiCl₃)to prepare an ethylene-styrene copolymer. Xu and Lin (Polymer Preprints,Am. Chem. Soc. Div. Polym. Chem.) Volume 35, pages 686,687 [1994]) havereported copolymerization using a MgCl₂/TiCl₄/NdCl₃/Al(iBu)₃ catalyst togive random copolymers of styrene and propylene. Lu et al (Journal ofApplied Polymer Science, Volume 53, pages 1453 to 1460 [1994]) havedescribed the copolymerization of ethylene and styrene using aTiCl₄/NdCl₃/MgCl₂ /Al(Et)₃ catalyst. Sernetz and Mulhaupt, (Macromol.Chem. Phys., v. 197, pp. 1071-1083, 1997) have described the influenceof polymerization conditions on the copolymerization of styrene withethylene using Me₂Si(Me₄Cp)(N-tert-butyl)TiCl₂/methylaluminoxaneZiegler-Natta catalysts. Copolymers of ethylene and styrene produced bybridged metallocene catalysts have been described by Arai, Toshiaki andSuzuki (Polymer Preprints, Am. Chem. Soc., Div. Polym. Chem.) Volume 38,pages 349, 350 [1997]) and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,652,315, issued to MitsuiToatsu Chemicals, Inc. The manufacture of α-olefin/vinyl aromaticmonomer interpolymers such as propylene/styrene and butene/styrene aredescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,244,996, issued to Mitsui PetrochemicalIndustries Ltd or U.S. Pat. No. 5,652,315 also issued to MitsuiPetrochemical Industries Ltd or as disclosed in DE 197 11 339 Al toDenki KAGAKU Kogyo KK. All the above methods disclosed for preparing theinterpolymer component are incorporated herein by reference.

[0098] While preparing the substantially random interpolymer, an amountof atactic vinyl aromatic homopolymer may be formed due tohomopolymerization of the vinyl aromatic monomer at elevatedtemperatures. The presence of vinyl aromatic homopolymer is in generalnot detrimental for the purposes of the present invention and can betolerated. The vinyl aromatic homopolymer may be separated from theinterpolymer, if desired, by extraction techniques such as selectiveprecipitation from solution with a non solvent for either theinterpolymer or the vinyl aromatic homopolymer. For the purpose of thepresent invention it is preferred that no more than 30 weight percent,preferably less than 20 weight percent based on the total weight of theinterpolymers of atactic vinyl aromatic homopolymer is present.

[0099] Blend Compositions Comprising the Substantially RandomInterpolymers

[0100] The present invention also provides films prepared from blends ofthe substantially random α-olefin/vinyl or vinylidene interpolymers withone or more other polymer components which span a wide range ofcompositions.

[0101] The other polymer component of the blend can include, but is notlimited to, one or more of an engineering thermoplastic, an α-olefinhomopolymer or interpolymer, a thermoplastic olefin, a styrenic blockcopolymer, a styrenic copolymer, an elastomer, a thermoset polymer, or avinyl halide polymer.

[0102] Engineering Thermoplastics

[0103] The third edition of the Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Science andTechnology (Volume 9, p 118-137, herein incorporated by reference),defines engineering plastics as thermoplastic resins, neat orunreinforced or filled, which maintain dimensional stability and mostmechanical properties above 100° C. and below 0° C. The terms“engineering plastics” and “engineering thermoplastics”, can be usedinterchangeably. Engineering thermoplastics include acetal and acrylicresins, polyamides (e.g. nylon-6, nylon 6,6,), polyimides,polyetherimides, cellulosics, polyesters, poly(arylate), aromaticpolyesters, poly(carbonate), poly(butylene) and polybutylene andpolyethylene terephthalates, liquid crystal polymers, and selectedpolyolefins, blends, or alloys of the foregoing resins, and someexamples from other resin types (including e.g. polyethers) hightemperature polyolefins such as polycyclopentanes, its copolymers, andpolymethylpentane.).

[0104] An especially preferred engineering thermoplastic are the acrylicresins which derive from the peroxide-catalyzed free radicalpolymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA). As described by H. Luke inModern Plastics Encyclopedia, 1989, pps 20-21, MMA is usuallycopolymerized with other acrylates such as methyl- or ethyl acrylateusing four basic polymerization processes, bulk, suspension, emulsionand solution. Acrylics can also be modified with various ingredientsincluding butadiene, vinyl and butyl acrylate.

[0105] The α-olefin homopolymers and interpolymers comprisepolypropylene, propylene/C₄-C₂₀ α-olefin copolymers, polyethylene, andethylene/C₃-C₂₀ α-olefin copolymers, the interpolymers can be eitherheterogeneous ethylene/α-olefin interpolymers or homogeneousethylene/α-olefin interpolymers, including the substantially linearethylene/α-olefin interpolymers. Also included are aliphatic α-olefinshaving from 2 to 20 carbon atoms and containing polar groups. Suitablealiphatic α-olefin monomers which introduce polar groups into thepolymer include, for example, ethylenically unsaturated nitriles such asacrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile, ethacrylonitrile, etc.; ethylenicallyunsaturated anhydrides such as maleic anhydride; ethylenicallyunsaturated amides such as acrylamide, methacrylamide etc.;ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acids (both mono- and difunctional)such as acrylic acid and methacrylic acid, etc.; esters (especiallylower, e.g. C₁-C₆, alkyl esters) of ethylenically unsaturated carboxylicacids such as methyl methacrylate, ethyl acrylate, hydroxyethylacrylate,n-butyl acrylate or methacrylate, 2-ethyl-hexylacrylate, orethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers etc.; ethylenically unsaturateddicarboxylic acid imides such as N-alkyl or N-aryl maleimides such asN-phenyl maleimide, etc. Preferably such monomers containing polargroups are acrylic acid, vinyl acetate, maleic anhydride andacrylonitrile. Halogen groups which can be included in the polymers fromaliphatic α-olefin monomers include fluorine, chlorine and bromine;preferably such polymers are chlorinated polyethylenes (CPEs).

[0106] Heterogeneous interpolymers are differentiated from thehomogeneous interpolymers in that in the latter, substantially all ofthe interpolymer molecules have the same ethylene/comonomer ratio withinthat interpolymer, whereas heterogeneous interpolymers are those inwhich the interpolymer molecules do not have the same ethylene/comonomerratio. The term “broad composition distribution” used herein describesthe comonomer distribution for heterogeneous interpolymers and meansthat the heterogeneous interpolymers have a “linear” fraction and thatthe heterogeneous interpolymers have multiple melting peaks (i.e.,exhibit at least two distinct melting peaks) by DSC. The heterogeneousinterpolymers have a degree of branching less than or equal to 2methyls/1000 carbons in about 10 percent (by weight) or more, preferablymore than about 15 percent (by weight), and especially more than about20 percent (by weight). The heterogeneous interpolymers also have adegree of branching equal to or greater than 25 methyls/1000 carbons inabout 25 percent or less (by weight), preferably less than about 15percent (by weight), and especially less than about 10 percent (byweight).

[0107] The Ziegler catalysts suitable for the preparation of theheterogeneous component of the current invention are typical supported,Ziegler-type catalysts. Examples of such compositions are those derivedfrom organomagnesium compounds, alkyl halides or aluminum halides orhydrogen chloride, and a transition metal compound. Examples of suchcatalysts are described in U.S. Pat No. 4,314,912 (Lowery, Jr. et al.),U.S. Pat. No. 4,547,475 (Glass et al.), and U.S. Pat. No. 4,612,300(Coleman, III), the teachings of which are incorporated herein byreference.

[0108] Suitable catalyst materials may also be derived from a inertoxide supports and transition metal compounds. Examples of suchcompositions are described in U.S. Pat No. 5,420,090 (Spencer. et al.),the teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0109] The heterogeneous polymer component can be an α-olefinhomopolymer preferably polyethylene or polypropylene, or, preferably, aninterpolymer of ethylene with at least one C₃-C₂₀ α-olefin and/or C₄-C₁₈dienes. Heterogeneous copolymers of ethylene, and propylene, 1-butene,1-hexene, 4-methyl-1-pentene and 1-octene are especially preferred.

[0110] The relatively recent introduction of metallocene-based catalystsfor ethylene/α-olefin polymerization has resulted in the production ofnew ethylene interpolymers known as homogeneous interpolymers.

[0111] The homogeneous interpolymers useful for forming the compositionsdescribed herein have homogeneous branching distributions. That is, thepolymers are those in which the comonomer is randomly distributed withina given interpolymer molecule and wherein substantially all of theinterpolymer molecules have the same ethylene/comonomer ratio withinthat interpolymer. The homogeneity of the polymers is typicallydescribed by the SCBDI (Short Chain Branch Distribution Index) or CDBI(Composition Distribution Branch Index) and is defined as the weightpercent of the polymer molecules having a comonomer content within 50percent of the median total molar comonomer content. The CDBI of apolymer is readily calculated from data obtained from techniques knownin the art, such as, for example, temperature rising elutionfractionation (abbreviated herein as “TREF”) as described, for example,in Wild et al, Journal of Polymer Science, Poly. Phys. Ed., Vol. 20, p.441 (1982), in U.S. Pat. No. 4,798,081 (Hazlitt et al.), or as isdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,008,204 (Stehling), the disclosure of whichis incorporated herein by reference. The technique for calculating CDBIis described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,322,728 (Davey et al.) and in U.S. Pat.No. 5,246,783 (Spenadel et al.). or in U.S. Pat. No. 5,089,321 (Chum etal.) the disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein byreference. The SCBDI or CDBI for the homogeneous interpolymers used inthe present invention is preferably greater than about 30 percent,especially greater than about 50 percent.

[0112] The homogeneous interpolymers used in this invention essentiallylack a measurable “high density” fraction as measured by the TREFtechnique (i.e., the homogeneous ethylene/α-olefin interpolymers do notcontain a polymer fraction with a degree of branching less than or equalto 2 methyls/1000 carbons). The homogeneous interpolymers also do notcontain any highly short chain branched fraction (i.e., they do notcontain a polymer fraction with a degree of branching equal to or morethan 30 methyls/1000 carbons).

[0113] The substantially linear ethylene/α-olefin polymers andinterpolymers of the present invention are also homogeneousinterpolymers but are further herein defined as in U.S. Pat. No.5,272,236 (Lai et al.), and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,272,872, the entirecontents of which are incorporated by reference. Such polymers areunique however due to their excellent processability and uniquerheological properties and high melt elasticity and resistance to meltfracture. These polymers can be successfully prepared in a continuouspolymerization process using the constrained geometry metallocenecatalyst systems.

[0114] The term “substantially linear” ethylene/α-olefin interpolymermeans that the polymer backbone is substituted with about 0.01 longchain branches/1000 carbons to about 3 long chain branches/1000 carbons,more preferably from about 0.01 long chain branches/1000 carbons toabout 1 long chain branches/1000 carbons, and especially from about 0.05long chain branches/1000 carbons to about 1 long chain branches/1000carbons.

[0115] Long chain branching is defined herein as a chain length of atleast one carbon more than two carbons less than the total number ofcarbons in the comonomer, for example, the long chain branch of anethylene/octene substantially linear ethylene interpolymer is at leastseven (7) carbons in length (i.e., 8 carbons less 2 equals 6 carbonsplus one equals seven carbons long chain branch length). The long chainbranch can be as long as about the same length as the length of thepolymer back-bone. Long chain branching is determined by using 13Cnuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and is quantified usingthe method of Randall (Rev. Macromol. Chem. Phys., C29 (2 & 3), p.285-297), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.Long chain branching, of course, is to be distinguished from short chainbranches which result solely from incorporation of the comonomer, so forexample the short chain branch of an ethylene/octene substantiallylinear polymer is six carbons in length, while the long chain branch forthat same polymer is at least seven carbons in length.

[0116] The catalysts used to prepare the homogeneous interpolymers foruse as blend components in the present invention are metallocenecatalysts. These metallocene catalysts include thebis(cyclopentadienyl)-catalyst systems and the mono(cyclopentadienyl)Constrained Geometry catalyst systems (used to prepare the substantiallylinear ethylene/α-olefin polymers). Such constrained geometry metalcomplexes and methods for their preparation are disclosed in U.S.application Ser. No. 545,403, filed Jul. 3, 1990 (EP-A-416,815); U.S.application Ser. No. 547,718, filed Jul. 3, 1990 (EP-A-468,651); U.S.application Ser. No. 702,475, filed May 20, 1991 (EP-A-514,828); as wellas U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,055,438, 5,057,475, 5,096,867, 5,064,802, 5,132,380,5,721,185, 5,374,696 and 5,470,993. For the teachings contained therein,the aforementioned pending United States Patent applications, issuedUnited States Patents and published European Patent Applications areherein incorporated in their entirety by reference thereto.

[0117] In EP-A 418,044, published Mar. 20, 1991 (equivalent to U.S. Ser.No. 07/758,654) and in U.S. Ser. No. 07/758,660 certain cationicderivatives of the foregoing constrained geometry catalysts that arehighly useful as olefin polymerization catalysts are disclosed andclaimed. In U.S. Ser. No. 720,041, filed Jun. 24, 1991, certain reactionproducts of the foregoing constrained geometry catalysts with variousboranes are disclosed and a method for their preparation taught andclaimed. In U.S. Pat. No. 5,453,410 combinations of cationic constrainedgeometry catalysts with an alumoxane were disclosed as suitable olefinpolymerization catalysts. For the teachings contained therein, theaforementioned pending United States Patent applications, issued UnitedStates Patents and published European Patent Applications are hereinincorporated in their entirety by reference thereto.

[0118] The homogeneous polymer component can be an α-olefin homopolymerpreferably polyethylene or polypropylene, or, preferably, aninterpolymer of ethylene with at least one C₃-C₂₀ α-olefin and/or C₄-C₁₈dienes. Homogeneous copolymers of ethylene, and propylene, 1-butene,1-hexene, 4-methyl-1-pentene and 1-octene are especially preferred.

[0119] Thermoplastic Olefins

[0120] Thermoplastic olefins (TPOs) are generally produced frompropylene homo- or copolymers, or blends of an elastomeric material suchas ethylene/propylene rubber (EPM) or ethylene/propylene diene monomerterpolymer (EPDM) and a more rigid material such as isotacticpolypropylene. Other materials or components can be added into theformulation depending upon the application, including oil, fillers, andcross-linking agents. Generally, TPOs are characterized by a balance ofstiffness (modulus) and low temperature impact, good chemical resistanceand broad use temperatures. Because of features such as these, TPOs areused in many applications, including automotive facia and instrumentpanels, and also potentially in wire and cable

[0121] The polypropylene is generally in the isotactic form ofhomopolymer polypropylene, although other forms of polypropylene canalso be used (e.g., syndiotactic or atactic). Polypropylene impactcopolymers (e.g., those wherein a secondary copolymerization stepreacting ethylene with the propylene is employed) and random copolymers(also reactor modified and usually containing 1.5-7% ethylenecopolymerized with the propylene), however, can also be used in the TPOformulations disclosed herein. In-reactor TPO's can also be used asblend components of the present invention. A complete discussion ofvarious polypropylene polymers is contained in Modem PlasticsEncyclopedia/89, mid October 1988 Issue, Volume 65, Number 11, pp.86-92, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference. The molecular weight of the polypropylene for use in thepresent invention is conveniently indicated using a melt flowmeasurement according to ASTM D-1238, Condition 230° C./2.16 kg(formerly known as “Condition (L)” and also known as 12). Melt flow rateis inversely proportional to the molecular weight of the polymer. Thus,the higher the molecular weight, the lower the melt flow rate, althoughthe relationship is not linear. The melt flow rate for the polypropyleneuseful herein is generally from about 0.1 grams/10 minutes (g/10 min) toabout 35 g/10 min, preferably from about 0.5 g/10 min to about 25 g/10min, and especially from about 1 g/10 min to about 20 g/10 min.

[0122] Styrenic Block Copolymers

[0123] Also included are block copolymers having unsaturated rubbermonomer units including, but not limited to, styrene-butadiene (SB),styrene-isoprene(SI), styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS),styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS),α-methylstyrene-butadiene-α-methylstyrene andα-methylstyrene-isoprene-α-methylstyrene.

[0124] The styrenic portion of the block copolymer is preferably apolymer or interpolymer of styrene and its analogs and homologsincluding α-methylstyrene and ring-substituted styrenes, particularlyring-methylated styrenes. The preferred styrenics are styrene andα-methylstyrene, and styrene is particularly preferred.

[0125] Block copolymers with unsaturated rubber monomer units maycomprise homopolymers of butadiene or isoprene or they may comprisecopolymers of one or both of these two dienes with a minor amount ofstyrenic monomer.

[0126] Preferred block copolymers with saturated rubber monomer unitscomprise at least one segment of a styrenic unit and at least onesegment of an ethylene-butene or ethylene-propylene copolymer. Preferredexamples of such block copolymers with saturated rubber monomer unitsinclude styrene/ethylene-butene copolymers, styrene/ethylene-propylenecopolymers, styrene/ethylene-butene/styrene (SEBS) copolymers,styrene/ethylene-propylene/styrene (SEPS) copolymers.

[0127] Styrenic Homo- and Copolymers

[0128] In addition to the block copolymers are the various styrenehomopolymers and copolymers and rubber modified styrenics. These includepolystyrene, high impact polystyrene and copolymers such asacrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) polymers, styrene-acrylonitrile(SAN).

[0129] Elastomers

[0130] The elastomers include, but are not limited to, rubbers such aspolyisoprene, polybutadiene, natural rubbers, ethylene/propylenerubbers, ethylene/propylene diene (EPDM) rubbers, styrene/butadienerubbers, thermoplastic polyurethanes.

[0131] Thermoset Polymers

[0132] The thermoset polymers include but are not limited to, epoxies,vinyl ester resins, polyurethanes and phenolic resins.

[0133] Vinyl Halide Polymers

[0134] Vinyl halide homopolymers and copolymers are a group of resinswhich use as a building block the vinyl structure CH₂═CXY, where X isselected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, and I and Y is selectedfrom the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, I and H.

[0135] The vinyl halide polymer component of the blends of the presentinvention include but are not limited to homopolymers and copolymers ofvinyl halides with copolymerizable monomers such as α-olefins includingbut not limited to ethylene, propylene, vinyl esters of organic acidscontaining 1 to 18 carbon atoms, e.g. vinyl acetate, vinyl stearate andso forth; vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, symmetricaldichloroethylene; acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile; alkyl acrylateesters in which the alkyl group contains 1 to 8 carbon atoms, e.g.methyl acrylate and butyl acrylate; the corresponding alkyl methacrylateesters; dialkyl esters of dibasic organic acids in which the alkylgroups contain 1-8 carbon atoms, e.g. dibutyl fumarate, diethyl maleate,and so forth.

[0136] Preferably the vinyl halide polymers are homopolymers orcopolymers of vinyl chloride or vinylidene chloride. Poly (vinylchloride) polymers (PVC) can be further classified into two main typesby their degree of rigidity. These are “rigid” PVC and “flexible” PVC.Flexible PVC is distinguished from rigid PVC primarily by the presenceof and amount of plasticizers in the resin. Flexible PVC typically hasimproved processability, lower tensile strength and higher elongationthan rigid PVC.

[0137] Of the vinylidene chloride homopolymers and copolymers (PVDC),typically the copolymers with vinyl chloride, acrylates or nitrites areused commercially and are most preferred. The choice of the comonomersignificantly affects the properties of the resulting polymer. Perhapsthe most notable properties of the various PVDC's are their lowpermeability to gases and liquids, barrier properties; and chemicalresistance.

[0138] Also included in the family of vinyl halide polymers for use asblend components of the present invention are the chlorinatedderivatives of PVC typically prepared by post chlorination of the baseresin and known as chlorinated PVC, (CPVC). Although CPVC is based onPVC and shares some of its characteristic properties, CPVC is a uniquepolymer having a much higher melt temperature range (410-450° C.) and ahigher glass transition temperature (239 -−275° F.) than PVC.

[0139] The compositions comprising at least one substantially randominterpolymer used to prepare the elastic films of the present inventionin addition to optionally comprising one or more of another polymercomponents can optionally comprise one or more additives.

[0140] Other Additives

[0141] Additives such as antioxidants (e.g., hindered phenols such as,for example, Irganox® 1010, and phosphites, e.g., Irgafos™ 168, (bothare registered trademarks of, and supplied by Ciba-Geigy Corporation,NY), u.v. stabilizers (including Tinuvin™ 328 and Chimassorb™ 944, bothare registered trademarks of, and supplied by Ciba-Geigy Corporation,NY), cling additives (e.g., polyisobutylene), slip agents (such aserucamide and/or stearamide), antiblock additives, colorants, pigments,and the like can also be included in the interpolymers and/or blendsemployed to prepare the elastic films of the present invention, to theextent that they do not interfere with the elastic properties of thefilms comprising the substantially random interpolymers. Processingaids, which are also referred to herein as plasticizers, are optionallyprovided to reduce the viscosity of a composition, and include thephthalates, such as dioctyl phthalate and diisobutyl phthalate, naturaloils such as lanolin, and paraffin, naphthenic and aromatic oilsobtained from petroleum refining, and liquid resins from rosin orpetroleum feedstocks. Suitable modifiers which can be employed herein asthe plasticizer include at least one plasticizer selected from the groupconsisting of phthalate esters, trimellitate esters, benzoates, adipateesters, epoxy compounds, phosphate esters (triaryl, trialkyl, mixedalkyl aryl phosphates), glutarates and oils. Particularly suitablephthalate esters include, for example, dialkyl C4-C18 phthalate esterssuch as diethyl, dibutyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, butyl2-ethylhexyl phthalate, dioctyl phthalate, diisooctyl phthalate, dinonylphthalate, diisononyl phthalate, didecyl phthalate, diisodecylphthalate, diundecyl phthalate, mixed aliphatic esters such as heptylnonyl phthalate, di(n-hexyl, n-octyl, n-decyl) phthalate (P610),di(n-octyl, n-decyl) phthalate (P810), and aromatic phthalate esterssuch as diphenyl phthalate ester, or mixed aliphatic-aromatic esterssuch as benzyl butyl phthalate or any combination thereof and the like.

[0142] Exemplary classes of oils useful as processing aids include whitemineral oil (such as Kaydol™ oil (available from Witco), and Shellflex™371 naphthenic oil (available from Shell Oil Company). Another suitableoil is Tuflo™ oil (available from Lyondell).

[0143] Antifogging or antistatic agents can be added to the films andsheets of the present invention to increase surface conductivity andprevention of water droplet formation and attraction of dust and dirt onthe film surface. These antifogging agents include, but are not limitedto, glycerol mono-stearate, glycerol mono-oleate, lauric diphthalamides,ethoxylated amines, ethoxylated esters, and other additives known in theindustry.

[0144] Tackifiers can also be added to the polymer compositions used toprepare the films or sheets of the present invention in order to alterthe Tg and thus extend the available application temperature window ofthe film. Examples of the various classes of tackifiers include, but arenot limited to, aliphatic resins, polyterpene resins, hydrogenatedresins, mixed aliphatic-aromatic resins, styrene/α-methylene styreneresins, pure monomer hydrocarbon resin, hydrogenated pure monomerhydrocarbon resin, modified styrene copolymers, pure aromatic monomercopolymers, and hydrogenated aliphatic hydrocarbon resins. Exemplaryaliphatic resins include those available under the trade designationsEscorez™, Piccotac™, Mercures™, Wingtack™, Hi-Rez™, Quintone™,Tackirol™, etc. Exemplary polyterpene resins include those availableunder the trade designations Nirez™, Piccolyte™, Wingtack™, Zonarez™,etc. Exemplary hydrogenated resins include those available under thetrade designations Escorez™, Arkon™, Clearon™, etc. Exemplary mixedaliphatic-aromatic resins include those available under the tradedesignations Escorez™, Regalite™, Hercures™, AR™, Imprez™, Norsolene™ M,Marukarez™, Arkon™ M, Quintone™, Wingtack™, etc. One particularlypreferred class of tackifiers includes the styrene/α-methylene stryenetackifiers available from Hercules. Particularly suitable classes oftackifiers include Wingtack™ 86 and Hercotac™ 1149, Eastman H-130, andstyrene/α-methyl styrene tackifiers.

[0145] Also included as a potential component of the polymercompositions used in the present invention are various organic andinorganic fillers, the identity of which depends upon the type ofapplication for which the elastic film is to be utilized. Representativeexamples of such fillers include organic and inorganic fibers such asthose made from asbestos, boron, graphite, ceramic, glass, metals (suchas stainless steel) or polymers (such as aramid fibers) talc, carbonblack, carbon fibers, calcium carbonate, alumina trihydrate, glassfibers, marble dust, cement dust, clay, feldspar, silica or glass, fumedsilica, alumina, magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxide, antimony oxide,zinc oxide, barium sulfate, aluminum silicate, calcium silicate,titanium dioxide, titanates, aluminum nitride, B₂O₃, nickel powder orchalk.

[0146] Other representative organic or inorganic, fiber or mineral,fillers include carbonates such as barium, calcium or magnesiumcarbonate; fluorides such as calcium or sodium aluminum fluoride;hydroxides such as aluminum hydroxide; metals such as aluminum, bronze,lead or zinc; oxides such as aluminum, antimony, magnesium or zincoxide, or silicon or titanium dioxide; silicates such as asbestos, mica,clay (kaolin or calcined kaolin), calcium silicate, feldspar, glass(ground or flaked glass or hollow glass spheres or microspheres orbeads, whiskers or filaments), nepheline, perlite, pyrophyllite, talc orwollastonite; sulfates such as barium or calcium sulfate; metalsulfides; cellulose, in forms such as wood or shell flour; calciumterephthalate; and liquid crystals. Mixtures of more than one suchfiller may be used as well.

[0147] These additives are employed in functionally equivalent amountsknown to those skilled in the art. For example, the amount ofantioxidant employed is that amount which prevents the polymer orpolymer blend from undergoing oxidation at the temperatures andenvironment employed during storage and ultimate use of the polymers.Such amount of antioxidants is usually in the range of from 0.01 to 10,preferably from 0.05 to 5, more preferably from 0.1 to 2 percent byweight based upon the weight of the polymer or polymer blend. Similarly,the amounts of any of the other enumerated additives are thefunctionally equivalent amounts such as the amount to render the polymeror polymer blend antiblocking, to produce the desired result, to providethe desired color from the colorant or pigment. Such additives cansuitably be employed in the range of from 0.05 to 50, preferably from0.1 to 3 5, more preferably from 0.2 to 20 percent by weight based uponthe weight of the polymer or polymer blend. When a processing aid isemployed, it will be present in the composition of the invention in anamount of at least 5 percent. The processing aid will typically bepresent in an amount of no more than 60, preferably no more than 30, andmost preferably no more than 20 weight percent.

[0148] Preparation of the Blends Comprising the Substantially RandomInterpolymers

[0149] The blended polymer compositions used to prepare the elasticfilms of the present invention can be prepared by any convenient method,including dry blending the individual components and subsequently meltmixing or melt compounding in a Haake torque rheometer or by dryblending without melt blending followed by part fabrication, eitherdirectly in the extruder or mill used to make the finished article(e.g., the automotive part), or by pre-melt mixing in a separateextruder or mill (e.g., a Banbury mixer), or by solution blending, or bycompression molding, or by calendering.

[0150] Preparation of the Elastic Films of the Present Invention

[0151] The elastic films of the present invention can be made usingconventional fabrication techniques, e.g. simple bubble extrusion,simple cast/sheet extrusion, coextrusion, lamination, etc. Conventionalsimple bubble extrusion processes (also known as hot blown filmprocesses) are described, for example, in The Encyclopedia of ChemicalTechnology, Kirk-Othmer, Third Edition, John Wiley & Sons, New York,1981, Vol 16, pp. 416-417 and Vol. 18, pp. 191-192, the disclosures ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

[0152] Injection molding, thermoforming, extrusion coating, profileextrusion, and sheet extrusion processes are described, for example, inPlastics Materials and Processes, Seymour S. Schwartz and Sidney H.Goodman, Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York, 1982, pp. 527-563, pp.632-647, and pp. 596-602. The strips, tapes and ribbons of the presentinvention can be prepared by the primary extrusion process itself or byknown post-extrusion slitting, cutting or stamping techniques. Profileextrusion is an example of a primary extrusion process that isparticularly suited to the preparation of tapes, bands, ribbons and thelike.

[0153] The elastic films of the present invention can also be renderedpervious or “breathable” by any method well known in the art includingby apperturing, slitting, microperforating, mixing with fibers or foams,or the like and combinations thereof. Examples of such methods include,U.S. Pat. No. 3,156,242 by Crowe, Jr., U.S. Pat. No. 3,881,489 byHartwell, U.S. Pat. No. 3,989,867 by Sisson and U.S. Pat. No. 5,085,654by Buell, the disclosures of all of which are incorporate herein byreference.

[0154] The film structure and the substantially random interpolymerselected for use in the practice of this invention will depend in largepart upon the particulars of the application, e.g. the preferredproperties of a film used in a shrink wrap are different than thepreferred properties of a film used in a stretch overwrap. The presentelastic film structures can be monolayer film or a multilayer film inwhich one or more film layers comprises at least one substantiallyrandom interpolymer.

[0155] In those embodiments in which the film structure is multilayer,it can be of any conventional structure, e.g. 2-ply, 3-ply, 4-ply,5-ply, 6-ply, 7-ply, etc. The structure will generally have an oddnumber of layers, and the film layer(s) comprising a substantiallyrandom interpolymer can be one or both outer layers and/or one or morecore layers. Those layer(s) constructed from polymer other than asubstantially random interpolymer can comprise any suitable materialgenerally compatible with a film constructed from a substantially randominterpolymer, e.g. one or more conventional LDPE, LLDPE, ULDPE, EVA,EAA, and the like. Additives such as those described above with respectto monolayer films can also be used in these multilayer films, and theseadditives can be incorporated into any of the film layers as desired,e.g. tackifiers and slip agents into one or both outer layers, fillersin one or more core layers, etc.

[0156] Other multilayer film manufacturing techniques for food packagingapplications are described in Packaging Foods With Plastics by Wilmer A.Jenkins and James P. Harrington (1991), pp. 19-27, and in “CoextrusionBasics” by Thomas I. Butler, Film Extrusion Manual: Process, MaterialsProperties, pp. 31-80 (published by TAPPI Press (1992)) the disclosuresof which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0157] Other desirable properties of the plastic films used in thisinvention include, depending on the nature of the other film layers inthe structure, ease of fabrication and good oxygen permeability(particularly with respect to films made from such copolymers as EVA andEAA), oxygen impermeability (particularly with respect to filmscontaining an oxygen barrier such as SARAN or ethylene vinyl alcohol),dart impact, puncture resistance, tensile strength, low modulus, tearresistance, shrinkability, high clarity and a low affect on the tasteand odor properties of the packaged food.

[0158] The plastic films of this invention are well suited for stretchoverwrap packaging various fresh foods, e.g. retail-cut red meats, fish,poultry, vegetables, fruits, cheeses, and other food products destinedfor retail display. These films are preferably prepared as nonshrinkfilms (e.g., without biaxial orientation induced by double bubbleprocessing), with good stretch, elastic recovery and hot tackcharacteristics, and can be made available to wholesalers and retailersin any conventional form, e.g. stock rolls, and used on all conventionalequipment.

[0159] Other plastic films of this invention can be used as shrink, skinand vacuum form packages for foods. The films comprising the shrinkpackages are typically biaxially oriented, exhibit low shrink tension,are of a density greater than about 0.89 g/cm³, and are typically about0.6 to about 2 mil in thickness. The elastic film structures used invacuum skin packaging can be multilayered, are typically about 5 toabout 12 mil in thickness.

[0160] The elastic films of the present invention can also be formed byextrusion processes and, most preferably, by art-known coextrusionmethods. Following coextrusion the film is cooled to a solid state by,for example, cascading water or chilled air quenching. For somestructures a precursor film layer or layers may be formed by extrusionwith additional layers thereafter being extrusion coated thereon to formmultilayer films. Two multilayer tubes may also be formed with one ofthe tubes thereafter being coated or laminated onto the other.

[0161] Preparation of the Fabricated Composite Articles Comprising theElastic Film of the Present Invention

[0162] Fabricated articles which can be made using the novel elasticfilms disclosed herein include composite fabric articles (e.g.,disposable incontinence garments and diapers) that are comprised of oneor more elastic component or portion. For example, elastic componentsare commonly present in diaper waist band portions to prevent the diaperfrom falling and leg band portions to prevent leakage (as shown in U.S.Pat. No. 4,381,781 (Sciaraffa), the disclosure of which is incorporatedherein by reference). Often, the elastic component promotes better formfitting and/or fastening systems for a good combination of comfort andsecurity. The novel elastic films disclosed herein can also producefabric composite structures which combine elasticity with breathabilityby utilization of a technique that renders the elastic film pervious or“breathable” such as suggested by Lippert et al. in U.S. Pat. No.4,861,652 and indicated above.

[0163] The novel elastic films disclosed herein can also be used invarious structures as described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,957,512 (Wade), thedisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. For example,layer 50 of the structure described in U.S. Pat. No. '512 (i.e., theelastic component) can be replaced with the novel elastic film,especially where flat, pleated, creped, etc., nonelastic films are madeinto elastic or semi-elastic structures. Attachment of the novel elasticfilms to nonelastic or less-elastic films can be done with heat bondingor with adhesives. Gathered or shirred elastic composite materials canbe produced from the new elastic film described herein and nonelasticcomponents by pleating the non-elastic component (as described in U.S.Pat. No. '512) prior to attachment, prestretching the elastic componentprior to attachment, or heat shrinking the elastic component afterattachment.

[0164] The novel elastic films described herein can also be used to makeother novel structures. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,801,482 (Goggans),the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, disclosesan elastic sheet (12) which can now be made with the novel materialsdescribed herein.

[0165] The novel elastic films described herein can also be used to makebreathable portion or breathable elastic composite materials. Forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 5,085,654 (Buell) discloses a leg band (15) witha breathable portion 45, a breathable topsheet (26), a breathablebacksheet (25), elastic elements (31 and 64), a breathable element (54),and a breathable sub-element (96) all or any combination of which cannow be made with the elastic films disclosed herein in either perviousor impervious forms.

[0166] The novel elastic films disclosed herein also have adjustablestretchability and elasticity that can be achieved by specificcombinations of elastic films and less-elastic material and/or byadjusting the interpolymer composition or by specific combination ofdifferent substantially random interpolymers, which enables designflexibility for variable stretchability or retractive force in the samegarment, as described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 5,196,000 (Clear etal.), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0167] U.S. Pat. No. 5,037,416 (Allen et al.), the disclosure of whichis incorporated herein by reference, describes the advantages of a formfitting top sheet by using elastic ribbons (member 12) and an elasticbacksheet (member 16). Pervious novel elastic films described hereincould serve the function of member 12 and impervious elastics materialsof this invention could function as member 16, or disclosed elasticfilms could be used in an elastic composite fabric form.

[0168] In U.S. Pat. No. 4,981,747 (Morman), the novel elastic filmsdisclosed herein can be substituted for elastic sheets 12, 122 and 232to construct an elastic composite material which includes a reversiblynecked material.

[0169] Elastic panels, elements, portions or the like can also be madefrom the novel elastic films disclosed herein, and can be used, forexample, as members 18, 20, 24, and/or 26 of U.S. Pat. No. 4,940,464(Van Gompel), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference. The novel elastic films described herein can also be used,for example, as elastic composite side panels (e.g., layer) or aselastic ribbons 42 and/or 44.

[0170] Properties of the Elastic Film of the Present Invention

[0171] Where the elasticity of the novel films of the present inventionvaries with respect to the thickness of the material, thicknesses lessthan about 22 mils, preferably from about 0.1 mils to about 20 mils, andmore preferably, from about 0.4 mils to about 15 mils are considered tobe within the purview of this invention.

[0172] The elastic films of the present invention films have a recoveryin the CD of ≧about 80%, preferably ≧about 90%, more preferably ≧about95%, and a recovery in the MD of ≧60%, preferably ≧about 70%, morepreferably ≧about 75%.

[0173] For the novel elastic films disclosed herein, the melt index ofthe substantially random interpolymer can be widely varied, with littleimpact on elasticity. This allows more design flexibility for elasticcomposites and finished articles because the strength and retractiveforce of the elastic film can be changed independently of itselasticity. For example, the tensile strength properties of an elasticfilm can be changed by changing the polymer's melt index (decreasing themelt index increases the tensile strength properties), rather than bychanging the thickness of the film, thus permitting a betteroptimization of the “hand” (i.e., feel) of an elastic composite fabricwith the desired elastic/strength performance of the composite fabric.The melt index of the substantially random interpolymers disclosedherein is limited in traditional ways as requirements respectingspecific extrusion processes. As examples, extrusion coating andinjection molding processes typically require high melt indices to avoidexcessive extrusion pressures and polymer shearing as well as to provideadequate melt flow characteristics, while blown film processes generallyrequire lower melt indices to achieve adequate bubble stability.

[0174] Properties of the Interpolymers and Blend Compositions Used toPrepare the Elastic Films of the Present Invention

[0175] The polymer compositions used to prepare the elastic films of thepresent invention comprise from about 50 to 100, preferably from about75 to 100, more preferably from about 90 to about 95 wt %, (based on thecombined weights of this component and the polymer component other thanthe substantially random interpolymer) of one or more interpolymers ofone or more α-olefins and one or more monovinyl aromatic monomers and/orone or more aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidene monomers.

[0176] It has been discovered that elastic properties in the resultantfilms are observed when these substantially random interpolymers containfrom about 10 to about 40 preferably from about 13 to about 33, morepreferably from about 15 to about 29 mole percent of at least one vinylaromatic monomer and/or aliphatic or cycloaliphatic vinyl or vinylidenemonomer and from about 60 to about 90, preferably from about 67 to about87, more preferably from about 71 to about 85 mole percent of at leastone aliphatic α-olefin having from 2 to about 20 carbon atoms.

[0177] The number average molecular weight (Mn) of the substantiallyrandom interpolymer used to prepare the elastic films of the presentinvention is greater than about 10,000, preferably from about 20,000 toabout 500,000, more preferably from about 30,000 to about 300,000.

[0178] The melt index (12) of the substantially random interpolymer usedto prepare the elastic films of the present invention is about 0.1 toabout 1,000, preferably of from about 0.5 to about 200, more preferablyof from about 0.5 to about 100 g/10 min.

[0179] The molecular weight distribution (M_(w)/Mn) of the substantiallyrandom interpolymer used to prepare the elastic films of the presentinvention is from about 1.5 to about 20, preferably of from about 1.8 toabout 10, more preferably of from about 2 to about 5.

[0180] The density of the substantially random interpolymer used toprepare the elastic films of the present invention is greater than about0.930, preferably from about 0.930 to about 1.045, more preferably offrom about 0.930 to about 1.040, most preferably of from about 0.930 toabout 1.030 g/cm³.

[0181] The polymer compositions used to prepare the elastic films of thepresent invention can also comprise from 0 to about 50, preferably from0 to about 25, even more preferably 5 to about 10 percent of by weightof at least one polymer other than the substantially random interpolymer(based on the combined weights of this component and the substantiallyrandom interpolymer) which can comprise a homogenous α-olefinhomopolymer or interpolymer comprising polypropylene, propylene/C₄-C₂₀α-olefin copolymers, polyethylene, and ethylene/C₃-C₂₀ α-olefincopolymers, the interpolymers can be either heterogeneousethylene/α-olefin interpolymers, preferably a heterogenousethylene/C₃-C₈ α-olefin interpolymer, most preferably a heterogenousethylene/octene-1 interpolymer or homogeneous ethylene/α-olefininterpolymers, including the substantially linear ethylene/α-olefininterpolymers, preferably a substantially linear ethylene/α-olefininterpolymer, most preferably a substantially linear ethylene/C₃-C₈α-olefin interpolymer; or a heterogenous ethylene/α-olefin interpolymer;or a thermoplastic olefin, preferably an ethylene/propylene rubber (EPM)or ethylene/propylene diene monomer terpolymer (EPDM) or isotacticpolypropylene, most preferably isotactic polypropylene; or a styreneicblock copolymer, preferably styrene-butadiene (SB),styrene-isoprene(SI), styrene-butadiene-styrene (SB S),styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS) or styrene-ethylene/butene-styrene (SEBS)block copolymer, most preferably a styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS)copolymer; or styrenic homopolymers or copolymers, preferablypolystyrene, high impact polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, copolymers ofstyrene and at least one of acrylonitrile, meth-acrylonitrile, maleicanhydride, or α-methyl styrene, most preferably polystyrene, orelastomers, preferably polyisoprene, polybutadiene, natural rubbers,ethylene/propylene rubbers, ethylene/propylene diene (EPDM) rubbers,styrene/butadiene rubbers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, most preferablythermoplastic polyurethanes; or thernoset polymers, preferably epoxies,vinyl ester resins, polyurethanes, phonolic resins, most preferablypolyurethanes; or vinyl halide homopolymers and copolymers, preferablyhomopolymers or copolymers of vinyl chloride or vinylidene chloride orthe chlorinated derivatives therefrom, most preferably poly (vinylchloride) and poly (vinylidene chloride); or engineeringthermosplastics, preferably poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA),cellulosics, nylons, poly(esters), poly(acetals); poly(amides), thepoly(arylate), aromatic polyesters, poly(carbonate), poly(butylene) andpolybutylene and polyethylene terephthalates, most preferablypoly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA), and poly(esters).

[0182] The elastic films according to the present invention may besuccessfully employed for packaging in general and for packaging smallitems in particular. Other potential applications include, but are notlimited to, meat over-wrap, paper replacement, table cloths and showercurtains and the like.

[0183] The following examples are illustrative of the invention, but arenot to be construed as to limiting the scope thereof in any manner.

EXAMPLES

[0184] Test Methods

[0185] A) Melt Flow and Density Measurements

[0186] The molecular weight of the polymer compositions for use in thepresent invention is conveniently indicated using a melt indexmeasurement according to ASTM D-1238, Condition 190° C./2.16 kg(formally known as “Condition (E)” and also known as 12) was determined.Melt index is inversely proportional to the molecular weight of thepolymer. Thus, the higher the molecular weight, the lower the meltindex, although the relationship is not linear.

[0187] Also useful for indicating the molecular weight of thesubstantially random interpolymers used in the present invention is theGottfert melt index (G, cm³/10 min) which is obtained in a similarfashion as for melt index (12) using the ASTM D1238 procedure forautomated plastometers, with the melt density set to 0.7632, the meltdensity of polyethylene at 190° C.

[0188] The relationship of melt density to styrene content forethylene-styrene interpolymers was measured, as a function of totalstyrene content, at 190° C. for a range of 29.8% to 81.8% by weightstyrene. Atactic polystyrene levels in these samples was typically 10%or less. The influence of the atactic polystyrene was assumed to beminimal because of the low levels. Also, the melt density of atacticpolystyrene and the melt densities of the samples with high totalstyrene are very similar. The method used to determine the melt densityemployed a Gottfert melt index machine with a melt density parameter setto 0.7632, and the collection of melt strands as a function of timewhile the 12 weight was in force. The weight and time for each meltstrand was recorded and normalized to yield the mass in grams per 10minutes. The instrument's calculated 12 melt index value was alsorecorded. The equation used to calculate the actual melt density is

δ=δ_(0.7632×) XI ₂ /I ₂GOTTFERT

[0189] where δ_(0.7632)=0.7632 and I₂ Gottfert=displayed melt index.

[0190] A linear least squares fit of calculated melt density versustotal styrene content leads to an equation with a correlationcoefficient of 0.91 for the following equation:

δ=0.00299×S+0.723

[0191] where S=weight percentage of styrene in the polymer. Therelationship of total styrene to melt density can be used to determinean actual melt index value, using these equations if the styrene contentis known.

[0192] So for a polymer that is 73% total styrene content with ameasured melt flow (the “Gottfert number”), the calculation becomes:

X=0.00299*73+0.723=0.9412

[0193] where 0.9412/0.7632=I₂/G#(measured)=1.23

[0194] The density of the substantially random interpolymers used in thepresent invention was determined in accordance with ASTM D-792.

[0195] B) Styrene Analyses

[0196] Interpolymer styrene content and atactic polystyreneconcentration were determined using proton nuclear magnetic resonance(¹H N.M.R). All proton NMR samples were prepared in1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane-d₂ (TCE-d₂). The resulting solutions were1.6-3.2 percent polymer by weight. Melt index (I₂) was used as a guidefor determining sample concentration. Thus when the I₂ was greater than2 g/10 min, 40 mg of interpolymer was used; with an I₂ between 1.5 and 2g/10 min, 30 mg of interpolymer was used; and when the 12 was less than1.5 g/10 min, 20 mg of interpolymer was used. The interpolymers wereweighed directly into 5 mm sample tubes. A 0.75 mL aliquot of TCE-d₂ wasadded by syringe and the tube was capped with a tight-fittingpolyethylene cap. The samples were heated in a water bath at 85° C. tosoften the interpolymer. To provide mixing, the capped samples wereoccasionally brought to reflux using a heat gun.

[0197] Proton NMR spectra were accumulated on a Varian VXR 300 with thesample probe at 80° C., and referenced to the residual protons of TCE-d₂at 5.99 ppm. The delay times were varied between 1 second, and data wascollected in triplicate on each sample. The following instrumentalconditions were used for analysis of the interpolymer samples:

[0198] Varian VXR-300, standard ¹H:

[0199] Sweep Width, 5000 Hz

[0200] Acquisition Time, 3.002 sec

[0201] Pulse Width, 8 λsec

[0202] Frequency, 300 MHz

[0203] Delay, 1 sec

[0204] Transients, 16

[0205] The total analysis time per sample was about 10 minutes.

[0206] Initially, a ¹H NMR spectrum for a sample of the polystyrene,Styron™ 680 (available from and a registered trademark of the DowChemical Company, Midland, Mich.) was acquired with a delay time of onesecond. The protons were “labeled”: b, branch; a, alpha; o, ortho; m,meta; p, para, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0207] Integrals were measured around the protons labeled in FIG. 1; the‘A’ designates aPS. Integral A_(7.1) (aromatic, around 7.1 ppm) isbelieved to be the three ortho/para protons; and integral A6.6(aromatic, around 6.6 ppm) the two meta protons. The two aliphaticprotons labeled α resonate at 1.5 ppm; and the single proton labeled bis at 1.9 ppm. The aliphatic region was integrated from about 0.8 to 2.5ppm and is referred to as A_(al). The theoretical ratio for A_(7.1):A_(6.6): A_(al) is 3:2:3, or 1.5:1:1.5, and correlated very well withthe observed ratios for Styron™ 680 (available from and a registeredtrademark of the Dow Chemical Company, Midland, Mich. for several delaytimes of 1 second. The ratio calculations used to check the integrationand verify peak assignments were performed by dividing the appropriateintegral by the integral A_(6.6) Ratio A_(r) is A_(7.1)/A_(6.6).

[0208] Region A_(6.6) was assigned the value of 1. Ratio Al is integralA_(al)/A_(6.6). All spectra collected have the expected 1.5:1:1.5integration ratio of (o+p):m:(α+b). The ratio of aromatic to aliphaticprotons is 5 to 3. An aliphatic ratio of 2 to 1 is predicted based onthe protons labeled α and b respectively in FIG. 1. This ratio was alsoobserved when the two aliphatic peaks were integrated separately.

[0209] For the ethylene/styrene interpolymers, the ¹H NMR spectra usinga delay time of one second, had integrals C_(7.1), C_(6.6), and C_(al)defined, such that the integration of the peak at 7.1 ppm included allthe aromatic protons of the copolymer as well as the o & p protons ofaPS. Likewise, integration of the aliphatic region C_(al) in thespectrum of the interpolymers included aliphatic protons from both theaPS and the interpolymer with no clear baseline resolved signal fromeither polymer. The integral of the peak at 6.6 ppm C_(6.6) is resolvedfrom the other aromatic signals and it is believed to be due solely tothe aPS homopolymer (probably the meta protons). (The peak assignmentfor atactic polystyrene at 6.6 ppm (integral A_(6.6)) was made basedupon comparison to the authentic sample Styron™ 680 (available from anda registered trademark of the Dow Chemical Company, Midland, Mich.)).This is a reasonable assumption since, at very low levels of atacticpolystyrene, only a very weak signal is observed here. Therefore, thephenyl protons of the copolymer must not contribute to this signal. Withthis assumption, integral A_(6.6) becomes the basis for quantitativelydetermining the aPS content.

[0210] The following equations were then used to determine the degree ofstyrene incorporation in the ethylene/styrene interpolymer samples:

(C Phenyl)=C_(7.1)+A_(7.1)−(1.5×A _(6.6))

(C Aliphatic)=C_(al)−(1.5×A _(6.6))

s_(c)=(C Phenyl)/5

e_(c)=(C Aliphatic−(3×s_(c)))/4

E=e_(c)/(e_(c)+s_(c))

S _(c)=s_(c)/(e_(c)+s_(c))

[0211] and the following equations were used to calculate the mol %ethylene and styrene in the interpolymers.${{Wt}\quad \% E} = {\frac{E*28}{\left( {E*28} \right) + \left( {S_{c}*104} \right)}(100)}$${{Wt}{\quad \quad}\% S} = {\frac{S_{c}*104}{\left( {E*28} \right) + \left( {S_{c}*104} \right)}(100)}$

[0212] where: s_(c) and e_(c) are styrene and ethylene proton fractionsin the interpolymer, respectively, and S_(c) and E are mole fractions ofstyrene monomer and ethylene monomer in the interpolymer, respectively.

[0213] The weight percent of aPS in the interpolymers was thendetermined by the following equation:${{Wt}\quad \% a\quad P\quad S} = {\frac{\left( {{Wt}\quad \% S} \right)*\left( \frac{\frac{A_{6.6}}{2}}{S_{c}} \right)}{100 + \left\lbrack {\left( {{Wt}\quad \% S} \right)*\left( \frac{\frac{A_{6.6}}{2}}{S_{c}} \right)} \right\rbrack}*100}$

[0214] The total styrene content was also determined by quantitativeFourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).

[0215] Preparation of ESI Interpolymers Used in Examples and ComparativeExperiments of Present Invention

[0216] 1) Preparation of ESI #'s 1-6

[0217] ESI #'s 1-6 are substantially random ethylene/styreneinterpolymers prepared using the following catalyst and polymerizationprocedures.

[0218] Preparation of Catalyst A(dimethyl[-(1,1-dimethylethyl-1,1-dimethyl-1-[(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl]silanaminato(2-)-N]-titanium)

[0219] 1) Preparation of 3,5,6,7-Tetrahydro-s-Hydrindacen-1 (2H)-one

[0220] Indan (94.00 g, 0.7954 moles) and 3-chloropropionyl chloride(100.99 g, 0.7954 moles) were stirred in CH₂Cl₂ (300 mL) at 0° C. asAlCl₃ (130.00 g, 0.9750 moles) was added slowly under a nitrogen flow.The mixture was then allowed to stir at room temperature for 2 hours.The volatiles were then removed. The mixture was then cooled to 0° C.and concentrated H₂SO₄ (500 mL) slowly added. The forming solid had tobe frequently broken up with a spatula as stirring was lost early inthis step. The mixture was then left under nitrogen overnight at roomtemperature. The mixture was then heated until the temperature readingsreached 90° C. These conditions were maintained for a 2 hour period oftime during which a spatula was periodically used to stir the mixture.After the reaction period crushed ice was placed in the mixture andmoved around. The mixture was then transferred to a beaker and washedintermittently with H₂O and diethylether and then the fractions filteredand combined. The mixture was washed with H₂O (2×200 mL). The organiclayer was then separated and the volatiles removed. The desired productwas then isolated via recrystallization from hexane at 0° C. as paleyellow crystals (22.36 g, 16.3% yield).

[0221]¹H NMR (CDCl₃): d2.04-2.19 (m, 2 H), 2.65 (t, ³J_(HH)=5.7 Hz, 2H), 2.84-3.0 (m, 4 H), 3.03 (t, ³J_(HH)=5.5 Hz, 2 H), 7.26 (s, 1 H),7.53 (s, 1 H).

[0222]¹³C NMR(CDCl₃): d25.71, 26.01, 32.19, 33.24, 36.93, 118.90,122.16, 135.88, 144.06, 152.89, 154.36, 206.50.

[0223] GC-MS: Calculated for C₁₂H₁₂O 172.09, found 172.05.

[0224] 2) Preparation of 1,2,3,5-Tetrahydro-7-phenyl-s-indacen.

[0225] 3,5,6,7-Tetrahydro-s-Hydrindacen-1(2H)-one (12.00 g, 0.06967moles) was stirred in diethylether (200 mL) at 0° C. as PhMgBr (0.105moles, 35.00 mL of 3.0 M solution in diethylether) was added slowly.This mixture was then allowed to stir overnight at room temperature.After the reaction period the mixture was quenched by pouring over ice.The mixture was then acidified (pH=1) with HCl and stirred vigorouslyfor 2 hours. The organic layer was then separated and washed with H₂O(2×100 mL) and then dried over MgSO₄. Filtration followed by the removalof the volatiles resulted in the isolation of the desired product as adark oil (14.68 g, 90.3% yield).

[0226]¹H NMR (CDCl₃): d2.0-2.2 (m, 2 H), 2.8-3.1 (m, 4 H), 6.54 (s, 1H),7.2-7.6 (m, 7 H).

[0227] GC-MS: Calculated for C₁₈H₁₆ 232.13, found 232.05.

[0228] 3) Preparation of 1,2,3,5-Tetrahydro-7-phenyl-s-indacene,Dilithium Salt.

[0229] 1,2,3,5-Tetrahydro-7-phenyl-s-indacen (14.68 g, 0.06291 moles)was stirred in hexane (150 mL) as nBuLi (0.080 moles, 40.00 mL of 2.0 Msolution in cyclohexane) was slowly added. This mixture was then allowedto stir overnight. After the reaction period the solid was collected viasuction filtration as a yellow solid which was washed with hexane, driedunder vacuum, and used without further purification or analysis (12.2075g, 81.1% yield).

[0230] 4) Preparation ofChlorodimethyl(1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl)silane.

[0231] 1,2,3,5-Tetrahydro-7-phenyl-s-indacene, dilithium salt (12.2075g, 0.05102 moles) in THF (50 mL) was added dropwise to a solution ofMe₂SiCl₂ (19.5010 g, 0.1511 moles) in THF (100 mL) at 0° C. This mixturewas then allowed to stir at room temperature overnight. After thereaction period the volatiles were removed and the residue extracted andfiltered using hexane. The removal of the hexane resulted in theisolation of the desired product as a yellow oil (15.1492 g, 91.1%yield).

[0232]¹H NMR (CDCl₃): d0.33 (s, 3 H), 0.38 (s, 3 H), 2.20 (p,³J_(HH)=7.5 Hz, 2 H), 2.9-3.1 (m, 4 H), 3.84 (s, 1 H), 6.69 (d,³J_(HH)=2.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.3-7.6 (m, 7 H), 7.68 (d, ³J_(HH)=7.4 Hz, 2 H).

[0233]₁₃C NMR(CDCl₃): d0.24, 0.38, 26.28, 33.05, 33.18, 46.13, 116.42,119.71, 127.51, 128.33, 128.64, 129.56, 136.51, 141.31, 141.86, 142.17,142.41, 144.62.

[0234] GC-MS: Calculated for C₂₀H₂₁ClSi 324.11, found 324.05.

[0235]5) Preparation ofN-(1,1-Dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-l-(1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1yl)silanamine.

[0236] Chlorodimethyl(1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl)silane(10.8277 g, 0.03322 moles) was stirred in hexane (150 mL) as NEt₃(3.5123 g, 0.03471 moles) and t-butylamine (2.6074 g, 0.03565 moles)were added. This mixture was allowed to stir for 24 hours. After thereaction period the mixture was filtered and the volatiles removedresulting in the isolation of the desired product as a thick red-yellowoil (10.6551 g, 88.7% yield).

[0237]¹HNMR (CDCl₃): d_(0.02) (s, 3 H), 0.04 (s, 3 H), 1.27 (s, 9 H),2.16 (p, ³J_(HH)=7.2 Hz, 2 H), 2.9-3.0 (m, 4 H), 3.68 (s, 1 H), 6.69 (s,1 H), 7.3-7.5 (m, 4 H), 7.63 (d, ³J_(HH)=7.4 Hz, 2 H).

[0238]¹³C NMR(CDCl₃): d−0.32, −0.09, 26.28, 33.39, 34.11, 46.46, 47.54,49.81, 115.80, 119.30, 126.92, 127.89, 128.46, 132.99, 137.30, 140.20,140.81, 141.64, 142.08, 144.83.

[0239]6) Preparation ofN-(1,1-Dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-1-(1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl)silanamine.Dilithium Salt.

[0240]N-(1,1-Dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-1-(1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl)silanamine(10.6551 g, 0.02947 moles) was stirred in hexane (100 mL) as nBuLi(0.070 moles, 35.00 mL of 2.0 M solution in cyclohexane) was addedslowly. This mixture was then allowed to stir overnight during whichtime no salts crashed out of the dark red solution. After the reactionperiod the volatiles were removed and the residue quickly washed withhexane (2×50 mL). The dark red residue was then pumped dry and usedwithout further purification or analysis (9.6517 g, 87.7% yield).

[0241] 7) Preparation of Dichloro[N-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-1-[(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl]silanaminato(2-)-N]titanium

[0242]N-(1,1-Dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-1-(1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl)silanamine,dilithium salt (4.5355 g, 0.01214 moles) in THF (50 mL) was addeddropwise to a slurry of TiCl₃(THF)₃ (4.5005 g, 0.01214 moles) in THF(100 mL). This mixture was allowed to stir for 2 hours. PbCl₂ (1.7136 g,0.006162 moles) was then added and the mixture allowed to stir for anadditional hour. After the reaction period the volatiles were removedand the residue extracted and filtered using toluene. Removal of thetoluene resulted in the isolation of a dark residue. This residue wasthen slurried in hexane and cooled to 0° C. The desired product was thenisolated via filtration as a red-brown crystalline solid (2.5280 g,43.5% yield).

[0243]¹H NMR (CDCl₃): d0.71 (s, 3 H), 0.97 (s, 3 H), 1.37 (s, 9 H),2.0-2.2 (m, 2 H), 2.9-3.2 (m, 4 H), 6.62 (s, 1 H), 7.35-7.45 (m, 1 H),7.50 (t, ³J_(HH)=7.8 Hz, 2 H), 7.57 (s, 1 H), 7.70 (d, ³J_(HH)=7.1 Hz, 2H), 7.78 (s, 1 H).

[0244]¹H NMR (C₆D₆): d0.44 (s, 3 H), 0.68 (s, 3 H), 1.35 (s, 9 H),1.6-1.9 (m, 2 H), 2.5-3.9 (m, 4 H), 6.65 (s, 1 H), 7.1-7.2 (m, 1 H),7.24 (t, ³J_(HH)=7.1 Hz, 2H), 7.61 (s, 1 H), 7.69 (s, 1 H), 7.77-7.8 (m,2 H).

[0245]¹³C NMR (CDCl₃): d1.29, 3.89, 26.47, 32.62, 32.84, 32.92, 63.16,98.25, 118.70, 121.75, 125.62, 128.46, 128.55, 128.79, 129.01, 134.11,134.53, 136.04, 146.15, 148.93.

[0246]¹³CNMR(C₆D₆): d0.90, 3.57, 26.46, 32.56, 32.78, 62.88, 98.14,119.19, 121.97, 125.84, 127.15, 128.83, 129.03, 129.55, 134.57, 135.04,136.41, 136.51, 147.24, 148.96.

[0247] 8) Preparation ofDimethyl[N-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-1-[(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl]silanaminato(2-)-N]titanium

[0248]Dichloro[N-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-1,1-dimethyl-1-[(1,2,3,4,5-η)-1,5,6,7-tetrahydro-3-phenyl-s-indacen-1-yl]silanaminato(2-)-N]titanium(0.4970 g, 0.001039 moles) was stirred in diethylether (50 mL) as MeMgBr(0.0021 moles, 0.70 mL of 3.0 M solution in diethylether) was addedslowly. This mixture was then stirred for 1 hour. After the reactionperiod the volatiles were removed and the residue extracted and filteredusing hexane. Removal of the hexane resulted in the isolation of thedesired product as a golden yellow solid (0.4546 g, 66.7% yield).

[0249]¹H NMR (C₆D₆): d0.071 (s, 3 H), 0.49 (s, 3 H), 0.70 (s, 3 H), 0.73(s, 3 H), 1.49 (s, 9 H), 1.7-1.8 (m, 2 H), 2.5-2.8 (m, 4 H), 6.41 (s, 1H), 7.29 (t, ³J_(HH)=7.4 Hz, 2 H), 7.48 (s, 1 H), 7.72 (d, 3 ³J_(HH)=7.4Hz, 2 H), 7.92 (s, 1 H).

[0250]¹³CNMR(C₆D₆): d2.19, 4.61, 27.12, 32.86, 33.00, 34.73, 58.68,58.82, 118.62, 121.98, 124.26, 127.32, 128.63, 128.98, 131.23, 134.39,136.38, 143.19, 144.85.

[0251] Preparation of CatalystB;(1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamido)-silanetitanium1,4-diphenylbutadiene)

[0252] 1) Preparation of Lithium 1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl

[0253] To a 250 ml round bottom flask containing 1.42 g (0.00657 mole)of 1H-cyclopenta[1]phenanthrene and 120 ml of benzene was addeddropwise, 4.2 ml of a 1.60 M solution of n-BuLi in mixed hexanes. Thesolution was allowed to stir overnight. The lithium salt was isolated byfiltration, washing twice with 25 ml benzene and drying under vacuum.Isolated yield was 1.426 g (97.7 percent). 1H NMR analysis indicated thepredominant isomer was substituted at the 2 position.

[0254] 2) Preparation of (1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethylchlorosilane

[0255] To a 500 ml round bottom flask containing 4.16 g (0.0322 mole) ofdimethyldichlorosilane (Me₂SiCl₂) and 250 ml of tetrahydrofuran (THF)was added dropwise a solution of 1.45 g (0.0064 mole) of lithium1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl in THF. The solution was stirred forapproximately 16 hours, after which the solvent was removed underreduced pressure, leaving an oily solid which was extracted withtoluene, filtered through diatomaceous earth filter aid (Celite™),washed twice with toluene and dried under reduced pressure. Isolatedyield was 1.98 g (99.5 percent).

[0256] 3) Preparation of (1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamino) Silane

[0257] To a 500 ml round bottom flask containing 1.98 g (0.0064 mole) of(1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethylchlorosilane and 250 ml ofhexane was added 2.00 ml (0.0160 mole) of t-butylamine. The reactionmixture was allowed to stir for several days, then filtered usingdiatomaceous earth filter aid (Celite™), washed twice with hexane. Theproduct was isolated by removing residual solvent under reducedpressure. The isolated yield was 1.98 g (88.9 percent).

[0258] 4) Preparation of Dilithio(1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamido)silane(1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamino)silane)

[0259] and 120 ml of benzene was added dropwise 3.90 ml of a solution of1.6 M n-BuLi in mixed hexanes. The reaction mixture was stirred forapproximately 16 hours. The product was isolated by filtration, washedtwice with benzene and dried under reduced pressure. Isolated yield was1.08 g (100 percent).

[0260] 5) Preparation of (1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamido)silanetitanium Dichloride

[0261] To a 250 ml round bottom flask containing 1.17 g (0.0030 mole) ofTiCl₃.3THF and about 120 ml of TMF was added at a fast drip rate about50 ml of a THF solution of 1.08 g of dilithio(1H-cyclopenta[1]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamido)silane. Themixture was stirred at about 20° C. for 1.5 h at which time 0.55 gm(0.002 mole) of solid PbCl₂ was added. After stirring for an additional1.5 h the THF was removed under vacuum and the reside was extracted withtoluene, filtered and dried under reduced pressure to give an orangesolid. Yield was 1.31 g (93.5 percent).

[0262] 6) Preparation of (1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamido)silanetitanium1,4-diphenylbutadiene.

[0263] To a slurry of(1H-cyclopenta[l]phenanthrene-2-yl)dimethyl(t-butylamido)silanetitaniumdichloride (3.48 g, 0.0075 mole) and 1.551 gm (0.0075 mole) of1,4-diphenyllbutadiene in about 80 ml of toluene at 70° C. was add 9.9ml of a 1.6 M solution of n-BuLi (0.0150 mole). The solution immediatelydarkened. The temperature was increased to bring the mixture to refluxand the mixture was maintained at that temperature for 2 hrs. Themixture was cooled to about −20° C. and the volatiles were removed underreduced pressure. The residue was slurried in 60 ml of mixed hexanes atabout 20° C. for approximately 16 hours. The mixture was cooled to about−25° C. for about 1 h. The solids were collected on a glass frit byvacuum filtration and dried under reduced pressure. The dried solid wasplaced in a glass fiber thimble and solid extracted continuously withhexanes using a soxhlet extractor. After 6 h a crystalline solid wasobserved in the boiling pot. The mixture was cooled to about −20° C.,isolated by filtration from the cold mixture and dried under reducedpressure to give 1.62 g of a dark crystalline solid. The filtrate wasdiscarded. The solids in the extractor were stirred and the extractioncontinued with an additional quantity of mixed hexanes to give anadditional 0.46 gm of the desired product as a dark crystalline solid.

[0264] Preparation of Cocatalyst E,(Bis(hydrogenated-tallowalkyl)methylamine

[0265] Methylcyclohexane (1200 mL) was placed in a 2L cylindrical flask.While stirring, bis(hydrogenated-tallowalkyl)methylamine (ARMEEN® M2HT,104 g, ground to a granular form) was added to the flask and stirreduntil completely dissolved. Aqueous HCl (1M, 200 mL) was added to theflask, and the mixture was stirred for 30 minutes. A white precipitateformed immediately. At the end of this time, LiB(C₆F₅)₄•Et₂O•3 LiCl(Mw=887.3; 177.4 g) was added to the flask. The solution began to turnmilky white. The flask was equipped with a 6″ Vigreux column topped witha distillation apparatus and the mixture was heated (140° C. externalwall temperature). A mixture of ether and methylcyclohexane wasdistilled from the flask. The two-phase solution was now only slightlyhazy. The mixture was allowed to cool to room temperature, and thecontents were placed in a 4 L separatory funnel. The aqueous layer wasremoved and discarded, and the organic layer was washed twice with H₂Oand the aqueous layers again discarded. The H₂O saturatedmethylcyclohexane solutions were measured to contain 0.48 wt percentdiethyl ether (Et₂O).

[0266] The solution (600 mL) was transferred into a 1 L flask, spargedthoroughly with nitrogen, and transferred into the drybox. The solutionwas passed through a column (1″ diameter, 6″ height) containing 13×molecular sieves. This reduced the level of Et₂O from 0.48 wt percent to0.28 wt percent. The material was then stirred over fresh 13× sieves (20g) for four hours. The Et₂O level was then measured to be 0.19 wtpercent. The mixture was then stirred overnight, resulting in a furtherreduction in Et₂O level to approximately 40 ppm. The mixture wasfiltered using a funnel equipped with a glass frit having a pore size of10-15 μm to give a clear solution (the molecular sieves were rinsed withadditional dry methylcyclohexane). The concentration was measured bygravimetric analysis yielding a value of 16.7 wt percent.

[0267] Polymerization

[0268] ESI #'s 1-6 were prepared in a 6 gallon (22.7 L), oil jacketed,Autoclave continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR). A magneticallycoupled agitator with Lightning A-320 impellers provided the mixing. Thereactor ran liquid full at 475 psig (3,275 kPa). Process flow was in atthe bottom and out of the top. A heat transfer oil was circulatedthrough the jacket of the reactor to remove some of the heat ofreaction. At the exit of the reactor was a micromotion flow meter thatmeasured flow and solution density. All lines on the exit of the reactorwere traced with 50 psi (344.7 kPa) steam and insulated.

[0269] Toluene solvent was supplied to the reactor at 30 psig (207 kPa).The feed to the reactor was measured by a Micro-Motion mass flow meter.A variable speed diaphragm pump controlled the feed rate. At thedischarge of the solvent pump, a side stream was taken to provide flushflows for the catalyst injection line (1 lb/hr (0.45 kg/hr)) and thereactor agitator (0.75 lb/hr ( 0.34 kg/hr)). These flows were measuredby differential pressure flow meters and controlled by manual adjustmentof micro-flow needle valves. Uninhibited styrene monomer was supplied tothe reactor at 30 psig (207 kpa). The feed to the reactor was measuredby a Micro-Motion mass flow meter. A variable speed diaphragm pumpcontrolled the feed rate. The styrene stream was mixed with theremaining solvent stream. Ethylene was supplied to the reactor at 600psig (4,137 kPa). The ethylene stream was measured by a Micro-Motionmass flow meter just prior to the Research valve controlling flow. ABrooks flow meter/controller was used to deliver hydrogen into theethylene stream at the outlet of the ethylene control valve. Theethylene/hydrogen mixture combines with the solvent/styrene stream atambient temperature. The temperature of the solvent/monomer as it entersthe reactor was dropped to ˜5° C. by an exchanger with −5° C. glycol onthe jacket. This stream entered the bottom of the reactor. The threecomponent catalyst system and its solvent flush also entered the reactorat the bottom but through a different port than the monomer stream.Preparation of the catalyst components took place in an inert atmosphereglove box. The diluted components were put in nitrogen padded cylindersand charged to the catalyst run tanks in the process area. From theserun tanks the catalyst was pressured up with piston pumps and the flowwas measured with Micro-Motion mass flow meters. These streams combinewith each other and the catalyst flush solvent just prior to entrythrough a single injection line into the reactor.

[0270] Polymerization was stopped with the addition of catalyst kill(water mixed with solvent) into the reactor product line after themicromotion flow meter measuring the solution density. Other polymeradditives can be added with the catalyst kill. A static mixer in theline provided dispersion of the catalyst kill and additives in thereactor effluent stream. This stream next entered post reactor heatersthat provide additional energy for the solvent removal flash. This flashoccurred as the effluent exited the post reactor heater and the pressurewas dropped from 475 psig (3,275 kPa) down to 250 mm of pressureabsolute at the reactor pressure control valve. This flashed polymerentered a hot oil jacketed devolatilizer. Approximately 85 percent ofthe volatiles were removed from the polymer in the devolatilizer. Thevolatiles exited the top of the devolatilizer. The stream was condensedwith a glycol jacketed exchanger and entered the suction of a vacuumpump and was discharged to a glycol jacket solvent and styrene/ethyleneseparation vessel. Solvent and styrene were removed from the bottom ofthe vessel and ethylene from the top. The ethylene stream was measuredwith a Micro-Motion mass flow meter and analyzed for composition. Themeasurement of vented ethylene plus a calculation of the dissolvedgasses in the solvent/styrene stream were used to calculate the ethyleneconversion. The polymer separated in the devolatilizer was pumped outwith a gear pump to a ZSK-30 devolatilizing vacuum extruder. The drypolymer exits the extruder as a single strand. This strand was cooled asit was pulled through a water bath. The excess water was blown from thestrand with air and the strand was chopped into pellets with a strandchopper.

[0271] The various catalysts, co-catalysts and process conditions usedto prepare the various individual ethylene styrene interpolymers (ESI#'s 1-6) are summarized in Table 1 and their properties are summarizedin Table 2. TABLE 1 PREPARATION CONDITIONS FOR ESI #'S 1-6 REACTORSOLVENT ETHYLENE HYDROGEN STYRENE ETHYLENE MMAO^(F)/ ESI TEMP FLOW FLOWFLOW FLOW CONVERSION B/TI TI CATA- CO- # ° C. LB/HR LB/HR LB/HR LB/HR %RATIO RATIO LYST CATALYST ESI 1 93.0 33.8 3.10 16.0 5.4 95.3 3.00 7.0A^(A) D^(D) ESI 2 69.0 30.0 1.30 0 10.0 87.0 3.00 5.0 B^(B) D^(D) ESI 371.5 30.0 1.30 0 15.8 96.6 3.00 4.0 A^(A) D^(D) ESI 4 100.1 18.9 1.994.3 7.0 85.12 1.25 10.0 C^(C) E^(E) ESI 5 73.6 15.9 1.21 2.8 8.5 89.081.25 N/A C^(C) E^(E) ESI 6 91.1 29.9 2.90 21.0 9.0 91.92 1.26 10.0 A^(A)E^(E)

[0272] TABLE 2 PROPERTIES OF ESI #'S 1-6 GOTTFERT ESI ESI ATACTIC NO,STYRENE STYRENE POLYSTYRENE (CM³/ M_(W)/M_(N) ESI # (WT %) (MOL %) (WT%) 10 MIN) 10³ M_(W) RATIO ESI 1 40.3 15.4 0.5 1.4 115 1.8 ESI 2 69.838.4 5.6 0.9 190 3.0 ESI 3 74.6 43.6 8.3 1.3 N/A N/A ESI 4 30.3 10.5 5.91 6 N/A N/A ESI 5 56.9 26.2 8.3 1.2 255 6.6 ESI 6 43.6 17.2 2.0 1.0 1333.1

Example 1

[0273] A sample ESI 1 containing 15.4 mol % styrene (40.3 wt %) andhaving a Gottfert melt index (G#) of 1.4 cm³/10 min was fabricated intofilm using a 1.25 in diameter extruder with a 12/6/6 24:1 L/D screwoperating at a melt temperature of about 415° F. The die was 3″ indiameter with a 60 mil die gap. (the extrusion conditions are summarizedin Table 3). The film (having a thickness of 1-3 mils) was submitted for% recovery testing as a measure of elastic film properties as describedherein. The results are summarized in Table 4 and demonstrate thedesired % recovery of greater than 80% in the CD and greater than about60% in the MD.

Example 2

[0274] A sample ESI 2 containing 38.4 mol % styrene (69.8 wt %) andhaving a Gottfert melt index (G#) of 0.9 cm³/10 min was fabricated intofilm and tested as for Example 1. The results are summarized in Table 4and demonstrate the desired % recovery of greater than 80% in the CD andgreater than about 60% in the MD.

Example 3

[0275] A sample ESI 5 containing 26.2 mol % styrene (56.9 wt %) andhaving a Gottfert melt index (G#) of 1.2 cm³/10 min was fabricated intofilm and tested as for Example 1. The results are summarized in Table 4and demonstrate the desired % recovery of greater than 80% in the CD andgreater than about 60% in the MD

Example 4

[0276] A sample ESI 6 containing 17.2 mol % styrene (43.6 wt %) andhaving a Gottifert melt index (G#) of 1.0 cm³/10 min was fabricated intofilm and tested as for Example 1. The results are summarized in Table 4and demonstrate the desired % recovery of greater than 80% in the CD andgreater than about 60% in the MD.

Example 5

[0277] A sample ESI 4 containing 10.5 mol % styrene (30.3 wt %) andhaving a Gottfert melt index (G#) of 1.6 cm³/10 min was fabricated intofilm and tested as for Example 1. The results are summarized in Table 4and demonstrate the desired % recovery of greater than 80% in the CD andgreater than 60% in the MD.

Comparative Experiment 1

[0278] A sample ESI 3 containing 43.6 mol % styrene (74.6 wt %) andhaving a Gottfert melt index (G#) of 1.3 cm³/10 min was fabricated intofilm and tested as for Example 1. The results are summarized in Table 4and do not demonstrate the desired % recovery of greater than 80% in theCD and greater than 60% in the MD.

Comparative Experiment 2

[0279] This was a film made from affinity™ PL1880, a substantiallylinear ethylene/1-octene interpolymer available from the Dow ChemicalCompany, prepared using a metallocene catalyst, and having melt index,I₂=1.6 g/10 min, a density=0.8965 g/cm³ a an I₁₀/I₂ of 10 and containing500 ppm Irganox™ 1076 and 800 ppm PEPQ™ and submitted to the % recoveryas described herein. The results are summarized in Table 4 and do notdemonstrate the desired % recovery of greater than 80% in the CD andgreater than 60% in the MD.

Comparative Experiment 3

[0280] This was a film made from Attane™ 4201, an ethylene/1-octeneinterpolymer available from the Dow Chemical Company, having melt index,I₂=1.0 g/10 min, a density=0.912 g/cm³ a an I₁₀/I₂ of 8.5 and submittedto the % recovery tests as described herein. The results are summarizedin Table 4 and do not demonstrate the desired % recovery of greater than80% in the CD and greater than 60% in the MD. TABLE 3 FABRICATIONCONDITIONS OF FILMS OF EXAMPLE #'S 1-5 AND COMPARATIVE EXPERIMENTS 1-3.COMP. COMP. COMP. EX. 1 EX. 2 EX. 3 EX. 4 EX. 5 EXPT. 1 EXPT. 2 EXPT. 3ZONE #1 SET. PT, F. 260 270 250 275 275 270 N/A N/A ZONE #2 SET. PT, F.370 370 325 350 350 370 N/A N/A ZONE #3 SET. PT, F. 380 380 351 385 375380 N/A N/A LARGE FLANGE 380 380 384 — 373 380 N/A N/A SET. PT., F.ADAPTER SET PT., F. 380 380 370 399 369 380 N/A N/A DIE 1 SET PT, F. 380385 376 400 379 385 N/A N/A DIE 2 SET PT, F. 380 385 374 400 375 385 N/AN/A MELT TEMP., F. 417 412 418 341 433 415 N/A N/A EXTRUDER 3170 35902730 2790 2460 2390 N/A N/A PRESS, PSIG SCREW SPEED RPM 50.1 50.1 50.149.7 50.1 50.1 N/A N/A EXTRUDER AMPS 16.7 18 16 13 17 155 N/A N/A NIPROLL SPEED, 16.6 16.6 26 20 26 16.6 N/A N/A FT/MIN

[0281] Test Methods

[0282] Elastic Recovery MD (machine direction) sample dimension is 25 mmwide in CD (cross direction) and 127 mm long in MD. Elastic Recovery: CD(cross direction) sample dimension is 25 mm wide in MD (machinedirection) and 127 mm long in CD. Thus a sample is pulled on a tensiletesting machine with a 50 mm gauge length setting at 250 mm/min to 100%of its original length. The sample is then held at that elongation for30 seconds. The sample is then unloaded at the same speed to theoriginal 50 mm gauge length. After a 60 second hold, sample is pulledagain to determine the point at which it exerts a force again. The %recovery: (average of five measurements) is obtained initially measuringthe % elongation or percent set. This is obtained by measuring thedistance to where the second load cycle begins to show a non-zero forcereading. This distance is the percent set or % elongation where;

% elongation=(elongated length−original length)/original length×100/1.

[0283] The % recovery is then calculated as;

% recovery=(100−% elongation).

[0284] The films of the present invention possess good elasticity shownby their having ≧80% recovery in the CD and ≧60% recovery in the MD.TABLE 4 % Recovery as an Indication of Elastic Film Properties OFEXAMPLES #'S 1-5 AND COMPARATIVE EXPERIMENTS 1-3 ESI % % EXAMPLE STYRENERECOVERY RECOVERY # ESI # (MOL %) (CD) (MD) EX. 1 ESI 1 15.4 93 95 EX. 2ESI 2 38.4 95 80 EX. 3 ESI 5 26.2 92 72 EX. 4 ESI 6 17.2 95 95 EX. 5 ESI4 10.5 80 77 COMP. ESI 3 43.6 29 23 EXPT 1 COMP. N/A N/A 70 69 EXPT 2COMP. N/A N/A 65 62 EXPT 3

[0285] Examples 1 and 4 both show excellent film elasticity with highrecovery in both the CD and MD. Examples 2 and 3 also show goodelasticity having high recovery in the CD and acceptable recovery in theMD. Example 5shows acceptable recovery in both the CD and MD.Comparative Example 1 shows poor elasticity and has low recovery in theboth the CD and MD due to the high styrene content. Comparative Examples2 and 3 also shows poor elasticity and a low recovery in the CD and MD.TABLE 5 FILM PROPERTIES OF EXAMPLES #'S 3-4 EX. 3 EX. 4 SECANT MODULUS(MPSI) 1% SECANT, MD, (MPSI) 6.3 0.7 1% SECANT, CD, (MPSI) 0.8 0.8 2%SECANT, MD, (MPSI) 6.3 0.7 2% SECANT, CD, (MPSI) 0.8 0.8 FILM TENSILESTENSILE YIELD, MD (PSI) 556 179 ULT. TENSILE, MD (PSI) 1286 2000 ULT.ELONGATION, MD (%) 337 448 TENSILE TOUGHNESS, MD (FT-LB/CU.IN) 238 207TENSILE YIELD, CD (PSI) 232 216 ULT. TENSILE, CD (PSI) 1317 1308 ULT.ELONGATION, CD (%) 354 471 TENSILE TOUGHNESS, CD (FT-LB/CU.IN) 155 174

[0286] The data in Table 5 demonstrate the good tensile strength andelongation of the elastic films of the present invention and theirsoftness and flexibility as indicated by their low modulus values.

What is claimed:
 30. An elastic film having at least one layercomprising; (A) at least one substantially random interpolymer, whichcomprises; (1) polymer units derived from at least one vinyl aromaticmonomer; and (2) polymer units derived from at least one C₂₋₂₀ α-olefin;and optionally (3) polymer units derived from one or more ethylenicallyunsaturated polymerizable monomers other than those of (1) and (2);wherein said elastic film has a recovery in the cross direction ofgreater than or equal to about 80% and has a recovery in the machinedirection of greater than or equal to about 60%, and the substantiallyrandom interpolymer has a M_(w)/M_(n) of from about 3 to about
 10. 31.The elastic film of claim 30 wherein the at least one layer furthercomprises (B) at least one polymer other than that of Component A 32.The elastic film of claim 31 wherein; (I) Component A is present in anamount from about 50 to 100 wt % based on the combined weights ofComponents A and B and has an I₂ of about 0.1 to about 1,000 g/10 min;and comprises; (1) from about 10 to about 40 mol % of polymer unitsderived from at least one vinyl aromatic monomer; and (2) from about 60to about 90 mol % of polymer units derived from at least one C₂₋₂₀α-olefin; and (3) from 0 to about 20 mol % of polymer units derived fromone or more of said ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomersother than those derived from (1) and (2); and (II) Component B ispresent in an amount from 0 to about 50 wt % based on the combinedweights of Components A and B.
 33. The elastic film of claim 31 wherein;(I) said substantially random interpolymer Component A is present in anamount of about 75 to 100 wt % based on the combined weights ofComponents A and B and has an I₂ of about 0.5 to about 200 g/10 min; andcomprises (1) from about 13 to about 33 mol % of polymer units derivedfrom said vinyl aromatic monomer represented by the following formula;

wherein R¹ is selected from the group of radicals consisting of hydrogenand alkyl radicals containing three carbons or less, and Ar is a phenylgroup or a phenyl group substituted with from 1 to 5 substituentsselected from the group consisting of halo, C₁₋₄-alkyl, andC₁₋₄-haloalkyl and n has a value from zero to about 4; and (2) fromabout 67 to about 87 mol % of polymer units derived from said α-olefinwhich comprises ethylene, or ethylene and at least one of propylene,4-methyl-1-pentene, butene-1, hexene-1 or octene-1; and (3) saidethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomers other than thosederived from (1) and (2) comprises norbomene, or a C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or C₆₋₁₀aryl substituted norbornene; and II) Component B is present in amountfrom 0 to about 25 wt % based on the combined weights of Components Aand B and comprises one or more of A) a homogeneous interpolymer; B) aheterogeneous interpolymer; C) a thermoplastic olefin; D) a styrenicblock copolymer; E) a styrenic homo- or copolymer; F) an elastomer; G) athermoset polymer; H) a vinyl halide polymer; or I) an engineeringthermoplastic.
 34. The elastic film of claim 31 wherein; (I) saidsubstantially random interpolymer, Component A, is present in an amountfrom about 90 to about 95 wt % based on the combined weights ofComponents A and B and has an I₂ of about 0.5 to about 100 g/10 min; andcomprises (1) from about 15 to about 29 mol % of polymer units derivedfrom said vinyl aromatic monomer which comprises styrene, α-methylstyrene, ortho-, meta-, and para-methylstyrene, and the ring halogenatedstyrenes; (2) from about 71 to about 85 mol % of polymer units derivedfrom said α-olefin, which comprises ethylene, or ethylene and at leastone of propylene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, butene-1, hexene-1 or octene-1; or(3) said ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomers other thanthose derived from (1) and (2) is norbomene; and II) Component B ispresent in amount from about 5 to about 10 wt % based on the combinedweights of Components A and B and comprises one or more of; A) asubstantially linear ethylene/α-olefin interpolymer; B) a heterogeneousethylene/C₃-C₈ α-olefin interpolymer; C) an ethylene/propylene rubber(EPM), ethylene/propylene diene monomer terpolymer (EPDM), isotacticpolypropylene; D) a styrene/ethylene-butene copolymer, astyrene/ethylene-propylene copolymer, a styrene/ethylene-butene/styrene(SEBS) copolymer, a styrene/ethylene-propylene/styrene (SEPS) copolymer;E) the acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) polymers,styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene, high impact polystyrene; F)polyisoprene, polybutadiene, natural rubbers, ethylene/propylenerubbers, ethylene/propylene diene (EPDM) rubbers, styrene/butadienerubbers, thermoplastic polyurethanes; G) epoxies, vinyl ester resins,polyurethanes, phenolic resins; H) homopolymers or copolymers of vinylchloride or vinylidene chloride; or I) poly(methylmethacrylate),polyester,nylon-6, nylon-6,6, poly(acetal); poly(amide), poly(arylate),poly(carbonate), poly(butylene) and polybutylene, polyethyleneterephthalates.
 35. The elastic film of claim 34 wherein Component A1 isstyrene, Component A2 is ethylene, and Component B is polystyrene. 36.The elastic film of claim 34 wherein Component A1 is styrene; andComponent A2 is ethylene and at least one of propylene,4-methyl-1-pentene, butene-1, hexene-1 or octene-1; and Component B ispolystyrene.
 37. A fabricated article comprising the elastic film ofclaim
 31. 38. The fabricated article of claim 37 in the form of a tape,bandage, incontinence garment, disposable diaper, disposable andprotective clothing and fabrics, a food wrap, meat wrap or a householdwrap.
 39. A multilayer film comprising at least two layers wherein atleast one of said layers has a recovery in the cross direction ofgreater than or equal to about 80% and has a recovery in the machinedirection of greater than or equal to about 60% and comprises a polymercomposition which comprises; (A) at least one substantially randominterpolymer, which comprises; (1) polymer units derived from at leastone vinyl aromatic monomer, and (2) polymer units derived from at leastone C₂₋₂₀ α-olefin; and optionally, (3) polymer units derived from oneor more ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomers other thanthose of (1) and (2), wherein the substantially random interpolymer hasa M_(w)/M_(n) of from about 3 to about
 10. 40. The multilayer film ofclaim 39 further comprising (B) at least one polymer other than that ofComponent A.
 41. The multilayer film of claim 40 wherein; (I) saidsubstantially random interpolymer, Component A, is present in an amountfrom about 50 to 100 wt % based on the combined weights of Components Aand B and has an I₂ of about 0.1 to about 1,000 g/10 min; and comprises;(1) from about 10 to about 40 mol % of polymer units derived from atleast one vinyl aromatic monomer, and (2) from about 60 to about 90 mol% of polymer units derived from at least one C₂₋ ₂₀ α-olefin; or (3)from 0 to about 20 mol % of polymer units derived from one or more ofsaid ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomers other than thosederived from (1) and (2); and (II) Component B is present in an amountfrom 0 to about 50 wt % based on the combined weights of Components Aand B.
 42. The multilayer film of claim 40 wherein; (I) saidsubstantially random interpolymer, Component A, is present in an amountof about 75 to 100 wt % based on the combined weights of Components Aand B and has an I₂ of about 0.5 to about 200 g/10 min; and comprises(1) from about 13 to about 33 mol % of polymer units derived from saidvinyl aromatic monomer represented by the following formula;

wherein R¹ is selected from the group of radicals consisting of hydrogenand alkyl radicals containing three carbons or less, and Ar is a phenylgroup or a phenyl group substituted with from 1 to 5 substituentsselected from the group consisting of halo, C₁₋₄-alkyl, andC₁₋₄-haloalkyl, and n has a value from zero to about 4; and (2) fromabout 67 to about 87 mol % of polymer units derived from said α-olefinwhich comprises ethylene, or ethylene and at least one of propylene,4-methyl-1-pentene, butene-1, hexene-1 or octene-1; (3) saidethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomers other than thosederived from (1) and (2) comprises norbornene, or a C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or C₆₋₁₀aryl substituted norbomene; and II) Component B is present in amountfrom 0 to about 25 wt % based on the combined weights of Components Aand B and comprises one or more of A) a homogeneous interpolymer; B) aheterogeneous interpolymer; C) a thermoplastic olefin; D) a styrenicblock copolymer; E) a styrenic homo- or copolymer; F) an elastomer; G) athermoset polymer; H) a vinyl halide polymer; or I) an engineeringthermoplastic.
 43. The multilayer film of claim 40 wherein; (I) saidsubstantially random interpolymer, Component A, is present in an amountfrom about 90 to about 95 wt % based on the combined weights ofComponents A and B and has an I₂ of about 0.5 to about 100 g/10 min; andcomprises (1) from about 15 to about 29 mol % of polymer units derivedfrom said vinyl aromatic monomer which comprises styrene, α-methylstyrene, ortho-, meta-, and para-methylstyrene, and the ring halogenatedstyrenes; (2) from about 71 to about 85 mol % of polymer units derivedfrom said α-olefin, which comprises ethylene, or ethylene and at leastone of propylene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, butene-1, hexene-1 or octene-1; or(3) said ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable monomers other thanthose derived from (1) and (2) is norbomene; and II) Component B ispresent in amount from about 5 to about 10 wt % based on the combinedweights of Components A and B and comprises one or more of, A) asubstantially linear ethylene/α-olefin interpolymer; B) a heterogeneousethylene/C₃-C₈ α-olefin interpolymer; C) an ethylene/propylene rubber(EPM), ethylene/propylene diene monomer terpolymer (EPDM), isotacticpolypropylene; D) a styrene/ethylene-butene copolymer, astyrene/ethylene-propylene copolymer, a styrene/ethylene-butene/styrene(SEBS) copolymer, a styrene/ethylene-propylene/styrene (SEPS) copolymer;E) the acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) polymers,styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene, high impact polystyrene; F)polyisoprene, polybutadiene, natural rubbers, ethylene/propylenerubbers, ethylene/propylene diene (EPDM) rubbers, styrene/butadienerubbers, thermoplastic polyurethanes; G) epoxies, vinyl ester resins,polyurethanes, phenolic resins; H) homopolymers or copolymers of vinylchloride or vinylidene chloride, or I) poly(methylmethacrylate),polyester,nylon-6, nylon-6,6, poly(acetal); poly(amide), poly(arylate),poly(carbonate), poly(butylene) and polybutylene, polyethyleneterephthalates.
 44. The multilayer film of claim 43 wherein Component A1is styrene, Component A2 is ethylene, and Component B is polystyrene.45. The multilayer film of claim 43 wherein Component A1 is styrene; andComponent A2 is ethylene and at least one of propylene,4-methyl-1-pentene, butene-1, hexene-1 or octene-1; and Component B ispolystyrene.
 46. A fabricated article comprising the multilayer film ofclaim
 40. 47. The fabricated article of claim 46 in the form of a tape,bandage, incontinence garment, disposable diaper, disposable andprotective clothing and fabrics, a food wrap, meat wrap or a householdwrap.
 48. The elastic film of claim 31 wherein Component A iscross-linked.
 49. The multilayer film of claim 40 wherein Component A iscross-linked.
 50. An elastic film comprising: at least one layer havinga thickness of from 1 mil to 3 mils, the layer consisting essentially ofa substantially random interpolymer which comprises: (1) polymer unitsderived from at least one vinyl aromatic monomer; and (2) polymer unitsderived from at least one C₂₋₂₀ α-olefin; and optionally (3) polymerunits derived from one or more ethylenically unsaturated polymerizablemonomers other than those of (1) and (2), wherein said elastic film hasa recovery in the cross direction of greater than or equal to about 80%and has a recovery in the machine direction of greater than or equal toabout 60%.
 51. The elastic film of claim 50, further comprising a secondlayer.
 52. The elastic film of claim 50, wherein the vinyl aromaticmonomer is represented by the following formula:

wherein R¹ is selected from the group of radicals consisting of hydrogenand alkyl radicals containing three carbons or less, and Ar is a phenylgroup or a phenyl group substituted with from 1 to 5 substituentsselected from the group consisting of halo, C₁₋₄-alkyl, andC₁₋₄-haloalkyl and n has a value from zero to about
 4. 53. The elasticfilm of claim 50, wherein the vinyl aromatic monomer is styrene,α-methyl styrene, otho-, meta-, and para-methyl styrene, orring-halogenated styrene.
 54. The elastic film of claim 50, wherein thesubstantially random polymer has a M_(w)/M_(n) from about 3 to about 10.55. The elastic film of claim 50, wherein the substantially randominterpolymer is an ethylene styrene interpolymer.